Maha Kumbh stampede: 30 dead, 60 injured as massive crowd breaks barricades

A tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj has claimed at least 30 lives and left 60 others injured. The chaos unfolded between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. when an overwhelming crowd surged forward, breaking through barricades.

Stampede at Sangam

According to DIG Mahakumbh Vaibhav Krishna, the stampede occurred in the Sangam area as lakhs of pilgrims rushed to take a holy dip on the sacred occasion of Mauni Amavasya.

Rescue teams and security personnel worked tirelessly to assist the injured, many of whom were carried away on stretchers. Personal belongings—blankets, bags, and shoes—were scattered across the site, marking the intensity of the incident.

National Leaders Extend Condolences

Top political leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Home Minister Amit Shah, expressed their condolences to the victims and their families. Opposition leaders also voiced their concerns.

Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Shah spoke to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who confirmed that several devotees were seriously injured. He assured that the government is providing medical assistance to all affected.

Rituals Disrupted, Then Resumed

The traditional ‘Amrit Snan’ of the Akharas was initially postponed due to the incident. However, it resumed at 2:30 p.m., led by Mahant Ravindra Puri of the Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad. The ritual, usually a grand spectacle, was subdued in light of the tragedy.

Assam Businessman Among the Deceased

One of the victims has been identified as Nitiranjan Roy, a 63-year-old businessman from Assam’s Hailakandi district. His body is set to be airlifted to Silchar for final rites.

VHP Calls for Focus on Relief Efforts

The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) described the stampede as a “deeply saddening” event. VHP president Alok Kumar urged authorities to address any lapses in security arrangements and called on political parties to refrain from blame games. He emphasized the need to focus on medical care for the injured and support for grieving families.

Helpline and Official Updates

Authorities have set up an official helpline at 1924 for those seeking information about their loved ones. Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the stampede and prevent future incidents.