Ayodhya (Uttar Pradesh) [India], January 30: Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak on Thursday addressed the tragic stampede incident at the Mahakumbh, emphasizing that the state government is taking it very seriously. He announced the formation of a judicial inquiry commission to thoroughly investigate the matter.
Speaking about the incident, Pathak stated, “The government is treating the stampede at Prayagraj with utmost seriousness. A judicial inquiry commission has been established, and anyone found guilty in the investigation will face strict action.”
Earlier in the day, Uttar Pradesh’s DGP Prashant Kumar and Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh visited Prayagraj to assess the aftermath of the stampede that occurred on January 29 during the Mauni Amavasya, a significant day during the Kumbh Mela. Their visit also aimed to oversee security arrangements for the third Amrit Snan, scheduled for February 3 on the occasion of Vasant Panchami.
DIG Vaibhav Krishna announced that VIP movement will be restricted on February 3, and preparations are in full swing for the upcoming Amrit Snan, with additional security measures and all bridges being reopened to accommodate the movement of pilgrims.
“We are reinforcing security for the upcoming Amrit Snan on Vasant Panchami, and to ensure smooth crowd management, we have reopened all bridges as the crowd has reduced. Like on January 29, there will be no VIP movement on February 3,” Krishna explained.
The stampede, which occurred in the early hours of January 29, resulted in a tragic loss of life, with at least 30 people confirmed dead and 60 injured. The incident occurred as millions of devotees gathered at the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers for a holy dip on the day of Mauni Amavasya, which marks the Second Shahi Snan during the Mahakumbh.
The Uttar Pradesh government has announced financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the victims. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has assured that the judicial committee will submit its report within a set timeframe, ensuring accountability for the tragic event.