By The Sampadak Express
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was scheduled to visit the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, on February 5, is expected to postpone or cancel his visit following a tragic stampede at the Sangam area.
The incident occurred early Wednesday, between 1 AM and 2 AM, when a large number of pilgrims gathered at the ghat to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya. As some devotees attempted to climb over the barricades at Akhara marg, a stampede ensued, resulting in at least 30 fatalities and 60 injuries. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath confirmed the details, noting that the local administration has been working to provide assistance to the victims.
PM Modi expressed his deepest condolences for the loss of life, describing the incident as “extremely saddening.” He assured the public that the state government was taking all necessary steps to support the injured and their families, and he has been in constant communication with CM Yogi Adityanath regarding the ongoing response. The Prime Minister also wished for a speedy recovery for those injured in the tragedy.
Among the deceased, four were from Karnataka, and others came from Assam, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal. The Uttar Pradesh government has announced an ex gratia of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased and has set up a judicial inquiry to investigate the causes of the stampede. The commission will be led by Justice Harsh Kumar, with former DG VK Gupta and retired IAS officer VK Singh as members.
In response to the incident, Maha Kumbh DIG Vaibhav Krishna stated that there would be no VIP protocol at the event moving forward. The local administration is focusing on ensuring safety and preventing further incidents.
Meanwhile, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar is expected to attend the festivities at the Maha Kumbh on February 1, and President Droupadi Murmu is scheduled to visit Prayagraj on February 10 to take part in the grand event.
The tragic stampede has led to heightened safety measures as the state and local authorities continue to manage the large influx of pilgrims attending this religious gathering.
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