North News
New Delhi, January 29
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow on Wednesday over the tragic accident at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, calling it “extremely sad.” “My heartfelt condolences to the devotees who have lost their loved ones in this incident,” Modi wrote. He also wished for the “speedy recovery” of all the injured.
“The local administration is working tirelessly to assist the victims in every possible way. I have spoken to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and remain in constant contact with the state government,” he added in his post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Several people were injured in a stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj early Wednesday as pilgrims rushed to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya, prompting Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to appeal for calm.
The incident occurred between 1 am and 2 am when devotees attempted to breach barricades. Chief Minister Adityanath, in a televised address, confirmed that the injured had been admitted to hospitals and urged people to avoid rumours. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah monitored the situation, with Modi making multiple calls to assess the response. Officials estimate eight to ten crore pilgrims are currently present at various ghats for the ritual bath. While the chief minister did not confirm casualties, media reports said at least 10 people were killed and many injured.
The UP Chief Minister urged devotees to take a holy dip at the nearest Ganga ghat and avoid heading towards Sangam. “Please follow the administration’s instructions and cooperate to maintain order. Pilgrims are bathing peacefully at all the ghats of Sangam. Do not heed any rumours,” he said in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
