Sun Feb 02 06:41:02 IST 2025: ## Yogi Adityanath Praises Saints’ Restraint After Maha Kumbh Stampede
**Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, Feb 2, 2025** – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited the Maha Kumbh Mela on Saturday, his first visit since a stampede on January 29th claimed 30 lives and injured at least 60. He lauded the saints for their restraint in the aftermath of the tragedy, implicitly criticizing political opponents for allegedly attempting to exploit the incident for global embarrassment.
Following an aerial survey of the Kumbh Mela site to assess pilgrim management ahead of the Basant Panchami Amrit snan on February 3rd, Adityanath inspected the Sangam Nose, the location of the stampede. He was briefed by officials on the incident.
Addressing a gathering of saints, Adityanath contrasted their calm response to the stampede with what he described as attempts by opponents of Sanatan Dharma to use the tragedy for political gain. He highlighted the saints’ decision to postpone their early morning dip and their efforts to manage the crowds, crediting them with significantly contributing to the smooth functioning of the Kumbh Mela.
The Chief Minister also acknowledged the massive turnout of over 32 crore devotees in the past 19 days and attributed the success of the event to the cooperation of the saints and their reverence for Sanatan Dharma. He further cautioned against those who try to spread misinformation, linking this to previous controversies surrounding the Ram Janambhoomi agitation.
Adityanath also participated in the ‘Pattabhishek’ ceremony of two revered saints and reviewed preparations for the upcoming Basant Panchami Amrit snan. He reiterated his commitment to the smooth operation of the Kumbh Mela and interacted with thousands of devotees before departing. The opposition continues to criticize the government’s handling of the event and calls for army involvement in its management.
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