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Disaster

Maha Kumbh Stampede Update: Death Toll Rises to 30, Several Injured

Eyewitnesses described harrowing moments of panic as thousands of devotees surged toward the riverbanks, leading to people falling and being trampled.

Maha Kumbh Stampede Update: Death Toll Rises to 30, Several Injured

A view of the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. Image: X/@_sujalraj

A devastating stampede-like situation at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj resulted in the deaths of 30 people and left 60 others injured in the early hours of Wednesday.

The tragic incident unfolded around 2 AM near the Sangam Nose, where an overwhelming crowd had gathered to take a holy dip on the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya.

According to The Indian Express, Vaibhav Krishna, DIG Mahakumbh, confirmed that 25 victims have been identified, while the injured are undergoing treatment at a local medical college.

Chaotic Scenes as Stampede Unfolded

Eyewitnesses described harrowing moments of panic as thousands of devotees surged toward the riverbanks, leading to people falling and being trampled.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that the tragedy occurred at Akhara Marg as a massive crowd moved towards the Sangam Nose, with some devotees sustaining injuries while attempting to climb over barricades.

Senior administrative officials and police personnel rushed to the scene, ensuring that the injured were taken to the medical facility established at the Mela. 

In response, several akharas decided to cancel the amrit snan (holy dip) to prioritize safety. Security was further intensified with the deployment of the Rapid Action Force.

Government’s Response

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath assured the public that the situation was under control and urged devotees to avoid the Sangam Nose, instead advising them to take a dip at nearby ghats.

“Do not attempt to reach Sangam Nose. Please follow the administration’s instructions and cooperate in maintaining order,” he posted on X. 

He also dismissed rumours, affirming that bathing was continuing peacefully at other ghats.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the incident, extending his condolences to the bereaved families.

“My deepest condolences to the devotees who have lost their loved ones in this. Along with this, I wish for the speedy recovery of all the injured,” he wrote on X.

PM Modi further stated that he had spoken to CM Adityanath and was in constant touch with the state government to ensure all necessary assistance was provided.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also conveyed his condolences, stating that he was closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Chief Minister and local authorities.

Political Reactions

The incident sparked strong criticism from the opposition, with the Congress party blaming the Uttar Pradesh government for its “half-baked” preparations at the Maha Kumbh.

Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, alleged that the administration’s excessive focus on VIP movement, rather than ensuring the safety of common devotees, was responsible for the tragedy.

“I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish a speedy recovery to the injured. The mismanagement and VIP culture at Maha Kumbh led to this unfortunate incident,” Gandhi posted on X.

He urged the government to rectify the situation before more major bathing rituals take place, stating, “There is still a long way to go in Maha Kumbh. The administration must improve its arrangements to prevent such tragedies. The government should curb VIP culture and prioritize the needs of common devotees.”

Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) also slammed the UP government, accusing it of politicizing religious events.

Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj criticized CM Yogi Adityanath for allegedly neglecting Mela preparations in favour of election campaigning.

“This is a serious matter. The UP government invited lakhs of devotees but failed to ensure their safety. Instead of overseeing arrangements, the Chief Minister left for political rallies in Delhi. VIPs and billionaires were given priority while common devotees suffered. Yogi Adityanath and his administration must take responsibility and resign,” Bharadwaj said.

Auspicious Occasion Draws Millions

Mauni Amavasya, considered the holiest day of the six-week-long Maha Kumbh, began on January 28 at 7:35 PM and will conclude on January 29 at 6:05 PM. The name is derived from the Sanskrit word maun, meaning silence, as many devotees observe a vow of silence on this day.

Authorities expect nearly 10 crore people to visit the Mela for the sacred bath. To manage the massive influx of pilgrims, Indian Railways has launched an extensive operation, running 360 trains, including 190 special services, across nine stations in Prayagraj district.

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