The chariot, an integral part of the centuries-old festival, was being pulled by devotees as part of the religious tradition. Organizers have faced criticism for alleged negligence in ensuring safety measures during the procession. Police have registered a case of death due to negligence and are investigating the incident.
The festival, held every 12 years, holds special significance this year due to a rare celestial alignment that occurs once every 144 years. This unique cosmic event provided an exceptional opportunity for spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with the divine. The convergence of the Maha Kumbh with Maha Shivratri further amplified its spiritual impact, with devotees believing that taking a dip during this period cleanses sins from multiple lifetimes and brings one closer to moksha (liberation).
The NGT’s principal bench, comprising chairperson Justice Prakash Srivastava, judicial member Justice Sudhir Agarwal, and expert member A Senthil Vel, had earlier directed the UPPCB and the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to take water samples and publish the results on their websites by January 31 and February 28.
Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has ordered a high-level inquiry to investigate the cause of the stampede and to prevent such incidents in the future. In the wake of the tragedy, special trains have been arranged to manage the heavy rush, and additional security personnel have been deployed to control the situation.
The earth is changing its breath.” Drawing a sacred symbol with ashes, he added, “When the river changes its course, cities built along its banks are starkly reminded that their foundations rest on borrowed land. The next four years will profoundly shape humanity’s understanding of permanence and the illusion of the eternal.”
The Akharas have called off their traditional Amrit Snan, although large numbers of devotees continued to take dips at Sangam and other ghats in the Mela area. Officer on Special Duty Akanksha Rana reported, “Some people have been injured and hospitalized after a barrier broke at the Sangam. We are yet to determine the exact count of those injured.” The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, reviewed the situation in a call with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and called for immediate support measures.
