Tue Feb 04 19:06:44 IST 2025: ## Rajya Sabha Uproar Over Disputed Maha Kumbh Stampede Death Toll
**New Delhi:** A heated debate erupted in the Rajya Sabha Tuesday after Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut claimed 2,000 people died in the January 29 Maha Kumbh stampede, a figure drastically higher than the official count of 30. His statement, made during a debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address, prompted immediate objections from the treasury benches.
Deputy Chairman Harivansh demanded verification of Raut’s claim, instructing the MP to substantiate the 2,000 death toll. Raut, who blamed poor management and described the Kumbh as a politically motivated event, agreed to provide evidence by the evening. He further argued that such a tragedy in other countries would lead to calls for the resignation of top officials.
This incident follows similar claims made Monday by Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who also alleged a high death toll, prompting the chairman to request a retraction. Raut’s speech also criticized the government, alleging a focus on elections at the expense of governance and claiming the erosion of democratic pillars.
BJP MP Anil Sukhdeorao Bonde countered the Opposition’s claims, questioning the lack of similar concerns regarding other incidents. Other MPs used the debate to raise diverse issues, including development concerns in Chhattisgarh and the need for a separate Sarna Dharma code in the census. The conflicting death tolls surrounding the Maha Kumbh stampede remain a point of significant contention.
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