Sun Feb 16 16:58:04 UTC 2025: ## Delhi Railway Station Stampede Leaves 18 Dead, Sparks Political Outrage

**New Delhi, India** – A deadly stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night claimed the lives of 18 people and injured dozens more, triggering widespread outrage and accusations of government negligence. The incident, which occurred amidst confusion surrounding train departures, particularly those heading to the Maha Kumbh Mela, has led to demands for the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

Initial reports suggest the stampede resulted from a combination of factors, including delayed trains, conflicting announcements regarding platform changes for trains bound for Prayagraj (two trains with similar names caused confusion), and a massive influx of passengers, potentially fueled by rumors of free train services to the Maha Kumbh. Witnesses reported that an announcement changing a train’s platform from 12 to 14 exacerbated the chaos.

The government has announced ex-gratia payments to the victims’ families, with Rs 10 lakh each for those killed and varying amounts for the injured. Several state governments, including Bihar, have also pledged compensation to their respective residents affected. However, this hasn’t quelled the political firestorm.

Opposition parties, particularly the Congress, have vehemently criticized the government’s response, calling the incident a “massacre” and a result of administrative failure. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate accused the government of a cover-up and demanded Vaishnaw’s resignation, while Congress MPs staged protests, including burning an effigy of the minister. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) echoed these sentiments, demanding greater accountability and adequate compensation.

While the BJP has called for a thorough investigation, the Railway Ministry has initiated its own high-level inquiry. Delhi Police stated that confusion over the names of two Prayagraj-bound trains and delays of three other trains contributed to the overcrowding. Railway officials are also reviewing the effectiveness of their announcement system. Although authorities maintain sufficient security personnel were deployed, the opposition questions the adequacy of these measures given the anticipated crowd size.

The incident has left families searching for missing loved ones, adding to the tragedy. The cause of death for five victims was determined to be traumatic asphyxia, caused by the intense pressure of the crowd. The investigations are ongoing.

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