A tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, claimed the lives of 30 devotees and left 60 others injured in the early hours of Wednesday. The chaos unfolded at the Sangam Nose, where thousands had gathered for a holy dip on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya. Authorities are now working to manage the situation while political reactions pour in.
Here are the top 10 updates on the incident
1. When and Where Did the Stampede Happen?
The incident took place around 2 AM at Sangam Nose, the sacred confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers. Witnesses reported severe overcrowding, leading to a crush as devotees jostled for space.
2. Death Toll and Injuries
Thirty people have been confirmed dead, while 60 others are receiving treatment at the local medical college. Officials say several devotees sustained serious injuries in the stampede.
3. CM Yogi Adityanath Says Situation “Under Control”
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath has assured the public that the situation is under control. He urged devotees to avoid the overcrowded Sangam Nose and instead bathe at nearby ghats.
4. PM Modi, Amit Shah in Constant Touch with UP Govt
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have expressed condolences and assured full support to the victims. PM Modi spoke to CM Yogi Adityanath and directed immediate relief efforts.
5. Congress, SP Slam Govt Over “VIP Culture” and Poor Planning
The Congress and Samajwadi Party criticized the UP government for alleged mismanagement, claiming that “VIP movement” and “half-baked” arrangements led to the tragedy. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav even suggested that the Army should take over Maha Kumbh’s administration.
6. Security Boosted After Tragedy
In response to the stampede, security has been ramped up at the Maha Kumbh Mela, with the Rapid Action Force (RAF) deployed and additional barricades installed.
7. Akharas Cancel Holy Dip After Stampede
Several akharas (Hindu monastic groups) called off their Amrit Snan (holy dip) in respect of the deceased and to prevent further mishaps.
8. Indian Railways Runs Special Trains for Pilgrims
With an estimated 10 crore devotees attending the Maha Kumbh today, Indian Railways is operating 360 trains, including 190 special services, to manage the influx of pilgrims.
9. Administration Faces Tough Questions on Crowd Control
Despite claims of “world-class arrangements,” the UP government is under scrutiny for failing to manage the crowd surge at the Sangam Nose, where the tragedy unfolded.
10. Maha Kumbh Continues Despite Stampede
Despite the stampede, lakhs of devotees are still arriving at Prayagraj for Mauni Amavasya. The UP government has appealed for calm and cooperation to ensure the safety of all pilgrims.