Nalanda, Bihar: Eight women lost their lives and more than 12 devotees were injured in a horrific stampede at the Maa Sheetala Devi Temple Sheetla Mata Temple in Maghra village on today.

The temple is located about 5 kilometres from Bihar Sharif in Nalanda district. The incident occurred on the last Tuesday of the Chaitra month, considered highly auspicious.

Thousands of devotees had gathered since early morning, believing that darshan of the Goddess on this day brings special blessings.The situation went out of control due to heavy overcrowding inside the temple premises. YouBella Jewellery Stylish Gold Plated Floral Necklace Jewellery Set with Earrings for Women and Girls

During the special morning puja and aarti, devotees suddenly rushed towards the sanctum sanctorum . This led to a violent push and shove, causing several women to fall.

In the heavy crowd, those who fell were trampled upon by others, resulting in the tragic deaths. All eight victims died on the spot due to asphyxiation.The injured more than 12 devotees were immediately rushed to the hospital in Bihar Sharif. Beware Before Buying Branded Watches in Silicon City! CCB Busts Racket Selling Fake Watches at Half Price

Some of them are reported to be in critical condition, according to medical sources.Soon after the incident, Nalanda district administration and police officials rushed to the spot and carried out rescue and relief operations.

Allegations of Administrative Failure Devotees have expressed strong anger, alleging that despite clear indications of a massive gathering, the temple authorities failed to arrange proper security, barricades, and crowd management.Over 200 Fall Sick Due to Food Poisoning After Consuming Sri Rama Navami 'Prasadam'!

Many claimed that the number of police personnel deployed was insufficient to control the huge crowd on this festive occasion.