Thu Jan 30 11:25:16 UTC 2025: **Lucknow Maha Kumbh Stampede Probe to Expedite**
**LUCKNOW, INDIA (January 30, 2025)** – A three-member judicial commission, tasked with investigating the deadly stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, has begun its work. At least 30 pilgrims died and 60 were injured in the pre-dawn incident on Wednesday, as crowds surged to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya.
The commission, headed by retired judge Harsh Kumar, and including former DGP V.K. Gupta and retired IAS officer D.K. Singh, has a one-month deadline but aims to complete its investigation sooner. The commissioners will soon visit Prayagraj to gather further evidence. While the exact division of labor among the commissioners remains undisclosed, Mr. Kumar confirmed they are prioritizing the investigation. The stampede occurred when pilgrims overwhelmed barricades, resulting in injuries and fatalities.
First Piper 