India, Aug. 17 -- Seven women devotees died and 25 people were injured in a stampede near the Ashok Dham temple in Bihar's Lakhisarai district on Monday, officials said.

The incident occurred due to a heavy rush of devotees at Ashok Dham Halt railway station, which is a short walk from the temple, and a rumour that electric current was spreading from a fallen pole.

While Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary announced Rs 4 lakh ex gratia to the next of kin of each deceased, the district administration ordered an investigation into the incident.

The pilgrims had gathered there to offer water to Lord Shiva at the temple. Mondays during Shravan, a month considered sacred to Lord Shiva, are regarded as particularly auspicious by his devotees.

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