Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak on Thursday emphasized the state’s commitment to addressing the tragic stampede at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, confirming that a judicial inquiry commission has been set up to thoroughly investigate the incident.
Speaking on the matter, Pathak stated, “The government has taken the incident at Prayagraj very seriously. A judicial inquiry commission has been established, and strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty after the investigation report.”
Earlier, Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar and Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh arrived in Prayagraj to assess the situation surrounding the stampede, which occurred on January 29 during the Mauni Amavasya. The officials are also overseeing the security arrangements in preparation for the upcoming third Amrit Snan, scheduled for February 3, which coincides with the Vasant Panchami festival.
DIG Vaibhav Krishna announced that VIP movement will be restricted on February 3, as part of the efforts to manage the crowd during the Amrit Snan. Authorities are taking additional measures to ensure safety, including reinforcing security duties and reopening all bridges due to the reduced crowd size.
“We are preparing for the upcoming Amrit Snan on Vasant Panchami and ensuring smooth movement of pilgrims. Duties are being reinforced, and we have reopened all bridges as the crowd has decreased,” Krishna said. “As we did on January 29, no VIP movement will be allowed on February 3. Our personnel are fully prepared for crowd management.”
The stampede, which occurred early on January 29, left at least 30 people dead and 60 others injured, according to the latest updates from officials. The incident took place as millions of devotees gathered at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, for a holy dip on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya, marking the Second Shahi Snan.
In response to the tragedy, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced a financial compensation of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also ordered that a judicial committee submit its report within a set timeframe.