At least eight people died and several others injured in a stampede at the Sheetla Temple in Nalanda district, Bihar on Tuesday.

The incident occurred during worship at the temple, where a large number of devotees had gathered. According to officials, the stampede broke out suddenly amid the crowd.

Dr Bishwajit Kumar of Bihar Sharif’s Model Hospital said that most of the deceased were women. “Around 13–14 people were brought to the hospital. Eight have died, while the others are undergoing treatment. Two critically injured patients have been referred to another hospital,” he said.

The injured are currently receiving treatment at nearby medical facilities.

Authorities said the temple premises were heavily crowded as it was the last Tuesday of the month of Chaitra, a day that draws a significant number of worshippers.