PM Modi Monitors Kumbh Mela Stampede Situation, Assures Support
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took swift action to address a stampede-like situation at the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj on Wednesday, reaching out to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath twice within an hour to monitor the crisis. Modi emphasized the need for immediate support measures and was closely supported by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP chief & Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda, who also reassured full support from the Centre.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday ahead of the highly anticipated ‘Amrit Snan’ on ‘Mauni Amavasya,’ a significant event during the Maha Kumbh. A massive crowd of pilgrims gathered for the holy bath, causing a stampede-like situation due to overcrowding. Officials reported that at least 30 women were injured, and many were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The situation escalated when barricades near the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers were broken, creating panic in the crowd. Eyewitnesses described harrowing scenes of women being trapped under the crowd, with some fainting. Several seriously injured devotees were transferred to local medical facilities for urgent treatment.
In response to the chaos, the Uttar Pradesh government had expected over 10 crore pilgrims on the day of Mauni Amavasya and had increased security measures. CM Yogi Adityanath took immediate steps by halting the entry of more devotees and urging them to bathe at the nearest ghats instead of the Triveni Sangam, where the main ritual was planned.
The stampede-like situation occurred just before the Amrit Snan, a highly significant event during this year’s Maha Kumbh, made even more special by the rare ‘Triveni Yog’ celestial alignment that happens only once every 144 years.
Authorities have since tightened security and advised devotees to stay cautious as they continue to manage the situation.
