Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday criticized the central government over the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, demanding transparency and accountability. He urged the authorities to disclose the exact number of casualties and missing individuals without delay.
“We demand that the number of dead and injured be declared as soon as possible and the identity of the missing people should also be ensured,” Kharge posted on X.
Emphasizing the need for immediate medical assistance, he extended condolences to the families of the victims. “Our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. The injured should be provided with immediate medical treatment,” he added.
Kharge also accused the Modi government of attempting to suppress the truth about the tragedy, insisting that those responsible must be held accountable. “The news of many people dying in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station is extremely sad. The videos coming from the station are extremely heartbreaking. The attempt by the Narendra Modi government to hide the truth in the case of deaths at New Delhi Railway Station is extremely shameful and condemnable,” he wrote on X.
Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera also highlighted the need for better crowd management, particularly in light of the ongoing Maha Kumbh pilgrimage. “The stampede incident at New Delhi station is sad. Due to the huge event of Kumbh, better arrangements should have been made at New Delhi station. About a dozen people are reported to be injured. Somehow, people were taken on a parcel cart and admitted to the hospital. Hope everyone reaches their destination safely,” Khera posted on X.
Incident Details
The stampede, which occurred on Saturday, resulted in 15 deaths and left an equal number injured. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Railway KPS Malhotra, a massive crowd had gathered on platform no. 14, where the Prayagraj Express was stationed. Further congestion occurred on platforms 12 and 13 due to delays in the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneshwar Rajdhani.
“We expected the crowd, but it all happened in a fraction of time, and hence this situation occurred. The fact-finding will be done by the Railways… After inquiry, we will get to know the reason behind the incident,” said DCP Malhotra.
Reports indicate that approximately 1,500 general tickets were sold, leading to overwhelming crowding. The situation worsened near platform no. 14 and the escalator at platform no. 1, where the stampede took place.
The Ministry of Railways has ordered a high-level inquiry into the incident. “A high-level inquiry has been ordered in the unfortunate incident,” the ministry stated.