Wed Jan 29 06:24:29 UTC 2025: ## Mahakumbh Stampede: Opposition Blames Poor Planning and VIP Culture for Deaths
**Prayagraj, UP** – A stampede at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj during the Mauni Amavasya holy dip has resulted in several deaths and around 30 injuries, sparking outrage and accusations of mismanagement against the government. Opposition parties have squarely blamed inadequate preparations, prioritizing VIP movement over pilgrim safety, and a focus on self-publicity for the tragedy.
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge condemned the “half-baked preparations” and criticized the emphasis on VIP visits, including those by Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, at the expense of ordinary pilgrims’ safety. Kharge specifically criticized the spending of “thousands of crores” without ensuring adequate facilities. Both called for improved arrangements, including expanded lodging and first-aid facilities, and a curtailment of VIP movement for the remaining snans (holy dips).
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav went further, demanding that the Mahakumbh arrangements be handed over to the Army to restore public trust and called for the resignation of those responsible for the alleged “world-class” arrangements that clearly failed.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath appealed for calm, urging devotees to use less crowded ghats and avoid spreading rumors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken to the Chief Minister, instructing him to provide immediate relief measures. The incident occurred as large crowds surged to take a holy dip in the Ganga river at the Sangam confluence, causing a stampede-like situation, particularly affecting women.
First Piper 