New Delhi [India], January 29: President Droupadi Murmu has expressed deep sadness over the stampede at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj earlier today, offering condolences to the families of the injured devotees.
“The stampede incident at Prayagraj Mahakumbh is extremely sad. I express my condolences to the families of the injured devotees and pray for the swift recovery of those hurt,” Murmu wrote in a post on X.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also shared his condolences, calling the incident deeply painful. “The accident that occurred at the ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj is heartbreaking. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families of those who lost their loved ones. I wish for the speedy recovery of the injured. The Uttar Pradesh government, under the guidance of Chief Minister @myogiadityanath, is providing all possible assistance to the victims,” Singh posted on X.
Mahakumbh DIG Vaibhav Krishna stated that authorities are investigating the cause of the mishap, which occurred during the early hours of the morning. “Amrit Snan is about to begin, and the police and administration will assist all the akharas with their traditional processions. The situation is under control, and we are looking into the reasons behind this incident, which resulted from overcrowding. Over 10 crore devotees are expected,” Krishna said.
SSP Kumbh Mela Rajesh Dwivedi clarified that it was not a stampede, but rather overcrowding that led to some injuries. “The situation is completely under control, and no rumors should be believed. Amrit Snan will proceed as scheduled. Preparations have been made, and many ghats have been developed to ensure a smoother experience for devotees,” Dwivedi explained.
The stampede-like situation arose during the early hours of the morning, as millions of devotees gathered at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers to bathe on Mauni Amavasya, coinciding with the Second Shahi Snan.