Tue Feb 04 02:51:18 UTC 2025: ## Parliament in Uproar Over Maha Kumbh Stampede, Other Issues

**New Delhi, Feb 4, 2025** – Day four of the Indian Parliament’s Budget session was dominated by heated debates and protests, primarily focusing on the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. Opposition parties accused the Uttar Pradesh government of hiding the true death toll and demanded accountability for the mismanagement. Samajwadi Party MP Akhilesh Yadav led the charge, alleging a cover-up and calling for punitive action against those responsible. Similar accusations were made by several other opposition MPs, including Congress MP Ranjeet Ranjan, who predicted a film would be made about the government’s alleged attempts to conceal the scale of the tragedy. While BJP MP Gulam Ali defended the government’s preparations, the opposition’s protests, including walkouts and slogan-shouting, significantly disrupted proceedings in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

The controversy extended beyond the stampede. A breach of privilege notice was filed against Congress leader Sonia Gandhi for allegedly using derogatory language towards President Droupadi Murmu. Meanwhile, AAP MP Sanjay Singh accused the BJP of voter manipulation in the upcoming Delhi elections, a claim vehemently denied by the treasury benches.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his response to the Motion of Thanks for the President’s address, highlighted his government’s achievements, emphasizing cost-saving measures, increased infrastructure spending (from ₹1.8 lakh crore to ₹11 lakh crore), and the positive impact of initiatives like the Govt E-Marketplace (GeM). He also touted the construction of over 12 crore toilets and the provision of tap water connections to numerous households. He countered opposition criticisms with a strong defense of his government’s policies and sharply criticized the opposition’s focus on what he termed frivolous issues.

Other significant issues raised during the session included concerns about unemployment, inflation, the need for a caste census, Centre-State relations, and the alleged discrimination against minorities. Several MPs raised specific issues related to their states, including demands for increased funding, the preservation of regional languages and dialects, and addressing environmental concerns. Allegations of corruption in Maharashtra’s agriculture department were also brought to light.

The day’s proceedings were marked by multiple adjournments and disruptions due to the ongoing protests and intense debate, underscoring the deep divisions within the Parliament. The session continues with the Prime Minister expected to address the Lok Sabha later in the day.

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