Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 31: A three-member judicial commission has arrived in Prayagraj to investigate the tragic stampede that occurred during the Mauni Amavasya ritual at the Maha Kumbh on January 29. The commission, formed to probe the incident, reached its office in Janpath, Lucknow, on Thursday and immediately took charge of the investigation.
Chairman of the commission, Justice (Retd.) Harsh Kumar, stated, “Since this investigation is a priority, we have commenced our work within hours of the announcement.” He assured that while the commission has a month to complete the inquiry, they would strive to conclude it as quickly as possible. Justice Kumar also confirmed that the commission will soon visit Prayagraj to assess the situation on the ground.
Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar, Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, and other officials conducted an on-site inspection of the area. DGP Kumar mentioned, “The state government has formed a judicial inquiry commission, and we are here to discuss preparations for the upcoming Basant Panchami ‘Amrit Snan,’ as well as to ensure better facilities. We also visited the spot where the stampede took place and met with patients receiving treatment at the Medical College. None of the injured are in critical condition; some have sustained fractures. We are committed to improving arrangements for Basant Panchami and preventing such incidents in the future.”
Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh provided an update on the injured, saying, “36 people are being treated at the hospital, and arrangements have been made for their attendants. The victims are from various locations, including Deoria, Delhi, and Bihar, and their families have been informed. None of the injuries are life-threatening, though some have fractures, and recovery may take up to three weeks for a few individuals.”
The stampede, which occurred during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual on Wednesday, resulted in the deaths of 30 people and left 60 others injured.