- By Kamakshi Bishnoi
- Tue, 04 Mar 2025 12:51 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the importance of not publicising the tragic stampede that occurred during the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj. At least 30 fatalities and 60 injuries were recorded at the stampede on January 29.
During a gathering of Indian Institute of Management (IIM) and Indian Postal Services in Lucknow on February 3, Adityanath emphasised that his administration acted promptly to manage the situation, ensuring timely medical assistance and preventing widespread panic among the approximately 80 million devotees and sadhus present at the event.
The UP CM highlighted the importance of not excessively publicising the incident to avoid exacerbating the situation and noted that the massive gathering could have led to further chaos if panic had ensued.
The Chief Minister said he personally intervened, requesting the 13 Akhadas to delay their scheduled 'Amrit Snan' (holy dip) to facilitate better crowd management. This strategic postponement allowed officials to evacuate the Sangam area by noon, enabling the rituals to resume safely by 2:30 PM.
"We did not allow the incident to be excessively highlighted as eight crore devotees and sadhus were present in Prayagraj and the Kumbh Mela area at the time and panic could have worsened the situation," news agency PTI quoted Yogi Adityanath.
"In difficult situations, many people panic and give up, but we must develop the strength to make firm decisions with patience and control," the CM added.
Reflecting on crisis management, Adityanath underscored the necessity of making firm decisions with patience and control during challenging situations. He also emphasised on the significance of effective coordination among stakeholders, including devotees, sadhus, and administrative officials, to maintain order and ensure the smooth execution of large-scale events like the Maha Kumbh.
The Maha Kumbh, held once every 12 years, attracts millions of pilgrims worldwide, posing significant crowd management challenges. This year's event saw over 660 million attendees, according to the Uttar Pradesh government.
"Maha Kumbh teaches patience and discipline. Whether for faith or economy, such events leave a lasting impact and contribute to national development," said Yogi Adityanath.
Addressing the international participation, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said, "The event saw visits of the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, governors, chief ministers, 74 ambassadors and high commissioners, Bhutan's King, 12 foreign ministers, and representatives from over 100 countries. Business leaders, film stars, and cricketers also took part."
