At least seven women were killed in a stampede triggered by panic over a false and baseless rumor of a snapped electrical wire at a temple in Bihar, India. Several other pilgrims were injured in the incident.

The tragic accident occurred early Monday (August 17) morning amid a large gathering of devotees at the traditional Ashok Dham Temple in the Lakhisarai district of the state, according to Anadolu Agency reports.

Temple official Shailendra Kumar stated that during early morning prayers, a terrifying rumor suddenly spread that an electricity pole had collapsed and live wires were snapping onto the pilgrims.

The rumor spread rapidly among the worshippers in an instant, creating severe panic.

A chaotic rush ensued, particularly in the women's queue, and people fell over one another while scrambling in terror. This resulted in the tragic deaths of seven women on the spot.

The Lakhisarai district administration reported that those injured in the stampede were swiftly rescued and sent to a nearby hospital.

Efforts are currently underway to ensure medical care for the injured while gathering detailed information.

Meanwhile, describing the incident as deeply heartbreaking, Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary stated that the local administration has been urgently directed to take all necessary steps to ensure proper medical treatment for the injured individuals.