Maha Kumbh Stampede: 30 Dead, 60 Injured in Prayagraj; Judicial Probe Ordered

A stampede at the Maha Kumbh venue in Prayagraj early Wednesday morning (January 29, 2025) resulted in at least 30 fatalities and left 60 others injured, according to Vaibhav Krishna, DIG Mahakumbh. The tragedy occurred between 1-2 a.m. when an overwhelming crowd broke through barricades, leading to chaos and casualties.

The incident took place in the Sangam area as millions of pilgrims gathered for a holy dip on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya.

Government Response & Condolences

While the Uttar Pradesh government has not officially disclosed the casualty count, national leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and several other ministers and opposition leaders, expressed condolences to the victims and their families.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath acknowledged that some devotees sustained serious injuries and stated that the stampede occurred when devotees attempted to climb over barricades at Akhara Marg.

‘Amrit Snan’ Resumes Amid Grief

The traditional ‘amrit snan’ ritual of the akharas, initially postponed due to the tragedy, resumed at 2:30 p.m. However, the procession was notably subdued. It was led by Mahant Ravindra Puri, head of the Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad.

Rescue Efforts & Aftermath

Security personnel and rescue teams were seen carrying the injured on stretchers, while personal belongings—including blankets and bags—lay scattered at the site.

A judicial probe has been ordered to investigate the incident and determine accountability.