New Delhi [India], January 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is closely monitoring the situation at the Mahakumbh following a stampede-like incident early this morning. He has been in regular contact with the Uttar Pradesh government, speaking to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath three times today to provide guidance on managing the situation and ensuring relief measures.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has also reached out to CM Yogi Adityanath, offering full support from the Centre in the wake of the incident at the Sangam during the Mauni Amavasya celebrations at the Mahakumbh Mela.
After the Akharas initially called off their Holy Dip due to the overcrowded ghats, Ravindra Puri, President of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad, confirmed that the Akharas would resume their ritual later in the day. He mentioned that the crowd had subsided, and the ghats designated for their holy dip were being cleared, making it possible for all Akharas to participate in the snan today.
Puri also stated that while the Akharas would carry out their processions as per tradition, they would be on a smaller scale and might even opt to take a holy dip later in the evening. “We are in regular contact with the Mela administration and have ample time, so there is no rush,” he explained.
He further clarified that the stampede-like situation had been triggered by the spread of misinformation. “Rumors created panic among the people early this morning. However, after speaking with everyone, we found the reality was different. I urge people to take a dip at the nearest ghat and avoid crowding at Sangam,” Puri said.
In response to the situation, UP CM Yogi Adityanath urged devotees to avoid congregating at a single ghat. He advised them to take the holy dip at the nearest ghat and follow the administration’s guidelines to ensure safety. “Do not listen to rumors. Devotees are peacefully bathing at all the ghats. Please cooperate with the authorities and follow instructions,” he posted on X.
The incident occurred as millions of devotees gathered at the Sangam Ghats for the ‘Amrit Snan’ on Mauni Amavasya, a significant day during the Mahakumbh. The day marks the second Shahi Snan, drawing an estimated 80-100 million people. Other key bathing dates during the event include February 3 (Basant Panchami – Third Shahi Snan), February 12 (Maghi Purnima), and February 26 (Maha Shivaratri).