Tragedy at Maha Kumbh: Stampede Claims Lives as PM Modi Extends Condolences

Social Issues Social Inequalities and exclusion

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-01-30 04:38:30 |

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A tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj on Mauni Amavasya morning has resulted in multiple deaths and injuries, with at least 30 women hurt in the chaos. The incident forced Akharas to postpone the sacred Amrit Snan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that the local administration is actively assisting those affected. The situation unfolded as massive crowds surged towards the Sangam for the holy dip, leading to a breakdown of barricades nearly a kilometer away. As some women fainted due to suffocation, panic ensued, triggering a stampede. The injured were immediately transported to on-site medical facilities, while those in critical condition were shifted to Bailey Hospital and Swaroop Rani Medical College.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reassured the public that the situation is under control but urged devotees to take their holy dip at the nearest ghat rather than pushing towards the Sangam Nose. He emphasized that all ghats hold spiritual significance and that devotees would receive the same divine blessings regardless of location. Special precautions were advised for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

In response to the tragedy, the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad announced the cancellation of their Amrit Snan for Mauni Amavasya. Mahant Ravindra Puri, president of the Parishad, stated that seers and saints were ready for their ritual bath when news of the stampede reached them, prompting them to call off their participation. Other religious leaders, including Mahant Hari Giri of the Juna Akhara, urged devotees to perform their rituals wherever they were and avoid overcrowding.

The incident has sparked political outrage, with opposition leaders criticizing the government's handling of the event. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav demanded resignations from officials responsible for crowd management, while Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge blamed the stampede on poor planning and VIP movement. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut questioned the allocation of over ₹10,000 crore for Kumbh arrangements, alleging mismanagement and political exploitation of the religious gathering.

The Uttar Pradesh government has set up toll-free helplines for Uttarakhand residents attending the Kumbh, ensuring assistance for those affected. Authorities have implemented strict security measures, including AI-based surveillance, drones, and additional police forces, while declaring the entire Mela area a no-vehicle zone.

Despite the tragedy, the Maha Kumbh continues, with millions of pilgrims still gathering for the Amrit Snan. The rare celestial alignment of 'Triveni Yog,' which occurs once every 144 years, has heightened the event’s spiritual significance. The government also planned to shower 25 quintals of rose petals from helicopters to honor the pilgrims.

The Maha Kumbh 2025, which began on January 13 and will continue until February 26, has already witnessed over 15 crore devotees participating in various rituals. Even after the tragic stampede, faith remains unshaken as millions continue to flock to Prayagraj for the sacred dip.

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