Maha Kumbh cover-up? Mamata accuses UP govermentt of hiding stampede death toll

Uttar Pradesh: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleges the Uttar Pradesh government is concealing the true death toll from a Maha Kumbh stampede, citing inadequate arrangements and mismanagement. Banerjee's accusations add fuel to the fire as opposition parties question the Yogi Adityanath administration's handling of the massive religious gathering.

Banerjee's Allegations

Mamata Banerjee has accused the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh of not releasing the correct death toll from a stampede at the Maha Kumbh. Speaking at a press conference following the West Bengal state budget presentation, Banerjee claimed that the UP government created hype around the event but failed to provide adequate arrangements in Prayagraj. "So many people died in the Maha Kumbh incident, but they are not releasing the correct death toll," Banerjee stated.

Stampede Details

A pre-dawn stampede occurred on January 29 during the Maha Kumbh as millions of devotees gathered to bathe at the holy Sangam nose on Mauni Amavasya. The Uttar Pradesh government reported 30 deaths and 60 injuries from the incident, which took place between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m.

Opposition's Concerns

Samajwadi Party chief and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has echoed Banerjee's concerns, accusing the BJP government of concealing the actual number of deaths. Yadav has demanded disciplinary action against those responsible for covering up the "mis-management" of arrangements for the Kumbh1. He criticized the government's inability to provide accurate death figures despite promoting a "digital Kumbh".

Maha Kumbh Preparations and Challenges

As the Maha Kumbh 2025 progresses, authorities have intensified security measures for major bathing dates like Magh Purnima. Millions of devotees are expected to participate, and the administration has designated the area as a 'No Vehicle' zone. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to ensure that devotees face no inconvenience during these events. Since the Maha Kumbh began on January 13, over 45 crore devotees have taken the "holy Triveni bath.