UP Govt downplayed Kumbh stampede to prevent panic among 8 crore devotees, says CM Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated that his government deliberately controlled the narrative around the January 29 stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj to prevent panic among the eight crore devotees present. The stampede at the Sangam ghat on Mauni Amavasya, a key bathing day, resulted in 30 deaths and 60 injuries. Adityanath said his administration acted swiftly, ensuring medical aid and crowd control while managing the situation without causing widespread alarm.

Speaking at a gathering of Indian Institute of Management (IIM) and Indian Postal Service officials in Lucknow, Adityanath explained that excessive focus on the incident could have led to disorder in the densely packed Kumbh Mela area. “We did not allow the incident to be excessively highlighted as eight crore devotees and sadhus were present in Prayagraj, and panic could have worsened the situation,” he said. The administration evacuated the Sangam area by noon and resumed the ritualistic ‘Amrit Snan’ by 2:30 pm after postponing it temporarily.

Adityanath outlined the challenges in managing Maha Kumbh, particularly ensuring the bathing order among 13 Akhadas, which has historically led to disputes. He highlighted that the event required extensive coordination among officials, religious leaders, and devotees to maintain order. “I personally requested them to delay the ritual to manage the situation,” he added, emphasizing that crowd movement and security were closely monitored throughout the event.

The Chief Minister recalled the 2013 Kumbh stampede at Prayagraj Junction that claimed 42 lives, stating that the government expanded infrastructure in preparation for 2025, including improving nine railway stations and Prayagraj Airport. He noted that the crowd turnout exceeded expectations, requiring additional holding and parking areas across districts like Mirzapur, Bhadohi, and Kaushambi. Despite the stampede, the administration ensured crowd discipline, with attendees voluntarily creating a green corridor to allow medical teams to reach the injured within 15 minutes.

Adityanath also spoke about previous issues at Maha Kumbh, including sanitation and mismanagement concerns raised by international bodies in earlier editions. He stated that in 2019, the government prioritized hygiene by installing one lakh toilets and preventing sewage from entering the Ganga. The 2025 Maha Kumbh saw an estimated attendance of 66 crore pilgrims, with religious, political, and global dignitaries visiting, including ambassadors, foreign ministers, and Bhutan’s king. He also mentioned UNESCO’s interest in studying the environmental impact of the event.

The Uttar Pradesh government allocated ₹7,500 crore for the 2025 Maha Kumbh, with ₹6,000 crore invested in infrastructure across Prayagraj and surrounding areas. Adityanath described the event as a major economic driver, creating employment opportunities and boosting businesses. “Maha Kumbh teaches patience and discipline. Whether for faith or economy, such events leave a lasting impact and contribute to national development,” he said.