Tragedy at Prayagraj Kumbh: ‘VIP Culture’ and ‘Mismanagement’ Under Fire

A tragic stampede occurred during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj as hundreds of thousands of devotees gathered for the ‘Amrit Snan’ on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya. Several casualties are feared, with many injured. The incident has sparked political outrage, with opposition leaders blaming the BJP-led Central and Uttar Pradesh governments for “mismanagement” and prioritizing “VIP culture” over public safety.

Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, criticized the government's handling of the event, stating that "VIP culture should be curbed" and that better arrangements should be made to accommodate common devotees. Expressing condolences, he called the incident "extremely saddening" and held the administration accountable for prioritizing VIP movements over the safety of the general public. Gandhi also urged Congress workers to assist affected families and called on the government to ensure better planning for future bathing rituals at the Kumbh to prevent similar tragedies.

Samajwadi Party chief and former UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav called the incident "heartbreaking" and demanded immediate action. In a post on social media platform X, he urged the government to provide urgent medical care to the injured using air ambulances, properly identify and return the deceased to their families, and increase security measures, including aerial surveillance, to manage upcoming royal baths safely.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also blamed the tragedy on VIP movements, inadequate arrangements, and a greater focus on self-promotion rather than public management. He stated that despite spending thousands of crores, such negligence is unacceptable. He urged both the central and state governments to wake up and make necessary improvements before more important bathing rituals take place.