What is the latest update on Maha Kumbh Prayagraj 2025 stampede? How far has the investigation reached

The Maha Kumbh Prayagraj 2025 stampede occurred on January 29, 2025, during the Mauni Amavasya, considered the most important day of the festival. The stampede took place at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India.  

Cause of the Stampede:

The stampede was caused by a broken barrier that led to a crowd surge as pilgrims tried to reach the Sangam, the confluence of the three rivers, for a holy bath.  

Casualties:

The official death toll was reported as 30, with 60 injured. However, unofficial sources and reports suggest that the actual number of fatalities could be much higher, ranging from 37 to 79.  

Investigation:

The Uttar Pradesh government ordered a retired judge to conduct an investigation into the incident. The investigation is ongoing, and the report is expected to be submitted within a month.

Additional Measures:

Following the stampede, the Uttar Pradesh government has taken several measures to improve crowd management and safety, including:

• Banning vehicles from entering the Maha Kumbh area until February 4.  
• Revoking VIP passes to streamline entry.  
• Increasing security deployment.  
• Dividing the festival site into more sectors.  
• Adding more forces to the Sangam area.
• Reducing the turnaround time of pilgrims in the bathing area.

Eyewitness Accounts:

Eyewitnesses reported that the police were unable to manage the crowd and that there were limited exit points, which worsened the situation. Some also alleged that the police beat pilgrims with sticks to move them before the crowds arrived.  

Reactions:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the victims and called for immediate support measures. Several Akharas decided to cancel their participation in the Amrit Snan. The Leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, blamed the incident on "mismanagement" and a "focus on VIP movement" by organizers.  

Ongoing Situation:

Despite the stampede, the festival continued, with about 30 million people having taken a bath in the area by 8 am on January 29. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates are expected.