Fri Jan 31 16:04:09 UTC 2025: **Indian Government Hosts International Diplomats at Maha Kumbh Following Stampede**
**Prayagraj, India –** Despite a recent deadly stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) will host a large group of international diplomats at the religious gathering on February 1st. 118 diplomats and their spouses, representing 77 countries, will participate in a one-day program showcasing the event’s logistical and security arrangements.
The visit follows a stampede on January 29th that resulted in at least 30 deaths and numerous injuries. While some embassies, including those from the U.S., U.K., France, and China, declined due to pre-existing commitments, many others confirmed their participation, according to MEA officials. The diplomats will tour the Kumbh site, visit the control room, and have the option of taking a dip in the Ganges River.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, expected to draw 40 crore pilgrims and tourists over the course of a month, has raised significant safety concerns following the stampede. A judicial commission has been established to investigate the incident and is expected to complete its probe within a month. The MEA’s decision to proceed with the diplomatic visit demonstrates a commitment to highlighting the event’s scale and organization, despite the recent tragedy.
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