Wed Jan 29 01:40:00 UTC 2025: **Prayagraj Kumbh Mela Stampede: PM Modi Speaks to CM Yogi Adityanath Amidst Fears of Dozens Dead**
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: A stampede at the Prayagraj Kumbh Mela late last night has prompted Prime Minister Narendra Modi to contact Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The Prime Minister sought an update on the situation and called for immediate assistance. While authorities haven’t confirmed any deaths, fears are mounting that dozens may have perished in the incident, which occurred ahead of the second “Amrit Snan” (holy bath) of the Kumbh Mela.
The massive crowd gathered for the auspicious occasion of Mauni Amavasya overwhelmed the Sangam area, leading to the stampede. The Royal Bath of Naga Sadhus has been temporarily suspended. Reports indicate that the sheer volume of devotees caused them to breach barricades and climb over sleeping pilgrims.
Mahant Hari Giri Maharaj, the general secretary of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad and patron of the Juna Akhada, appealed for calm and urged pilgrims to bathe in smaller groups of two to five people, suggesting they could find suitable bathing spots within a 40km radius of the Sangam. He emphasized that the sanctity of Mauni Amavasya’s bath would be achieved regardless of location.
The situation remains tense as authorities assess the extent of casualties and work to manage the large crowds.
First Piper 