Prayagraj: A three-member judicial commission has been formed to investigate the tragic stampede during the Mauni Amavasya at the Maha Kumbh, which happened on January 29. The commission members arrived in Prayagraj and have taken charge of the investigation at their office in Janpath, Lucknow.
Commission Chairman Justice (Retd.) Harsh Kumar stated that the investigation is a priority and emphasized their commitment to resolving it as quickly as possible, despite having a month to complete their findings. He also mentioned plans for the commission to visit Prayagraj soon to understand the situation firsthand.
Previously, Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar and Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, along with other officials, conducted an on-site inspection. DGP Kumar noted that the state government is committed to ensuring better organization during the upcoming Basant Panchami “Amrit Snan” and improving facilities to prevent such incidents in the future. He visited the Medical College to meet with those injured in the stampede, confirming that while no one is in critical condition, some have sustained fractures.
Chief Secretary Singh reported that 36 injured individuals are receiving care, with arrangements made for their attendants. The injured hailed from various locations, including Deoria, Delhi, and Bihar, and their families have been notified. He added that while most injuries are not serious, recovery for some individuals with fractures may take up to three weeks.
The stampede resulted in 30 deaths and left around 60 others injured during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual on Wednesday.