Indian Idol Auditions Kick Off With A Stampede

Almost 12 people were injured with fractures and head injuries as desperate Indian Idol Contestants tired of waiting, dashed in to get to the auditions before the others.

The ‘Indian Idol’ auditions that kicked off at Delhi yesterday had an ugly start owing to the stampede. The organisers had apparently expected 2000 contestants and 40000 turned up. 20 times the expected number! The incident took place in sector 62 at the Expo Mart.

The contestants had been waiting for quite a while and lost their composure when the gate was opened. They rushed inside uncontrollably. Superintendent of Police A.K. Tripathi said, "The entry to the venue was opened initially for 100 candidates. But many more rushed in, resulting in a stampede."

60 bouncers and 15 policemen were deployed to control the crowd but the crowd was way beyond their control. It is now being called a case of laxity on the part of the organisers. Deepak Agarwal, District magistrate, said "Action would be taken against the organisers if any laxity is found."