The Uttar Pradesh Police has launched an investigation into the stampede that claimed 30 lives during Mauni Amavasya at the Maha Kumbh, following suspicions of a possible conspiracy behind the incident. In addition to central intelligence agencies, the state’s Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and Special Task Force (STF) are actively searching for a group of youths believed to have triggered the chaos. The state government has also constituted a three-member judicial commission to probe the matter.
Several eyewitnesses and survivors reported that a group of young men
was deliberately pushing the crowd, causing panic among pilgrims. As
people tried to escape, they began pushing those ahead of them, leading to many falling and getting trampled underfoot. The stampede resulted in 30 fatalities and left 37 others injured. A similar stampede was also reported in the Jhunsi area, raising concerns about deliberate attempts to create unrest.
To identify the culprits, authorities are closely analyzing CCTV footage from the Maha Kumbh site. The ATS and STF teams are also questioning street vendors, including those selling religious offerings and bangles, in hopes of uncovering crucial leads. Meanwhile, strict security measures have been put in place across the fairgrounds.
ADG (Law & Order) and STF chief Amitabh Yash is camping in Prayagraj to oversee the investigation. DGP Prashant Kumar stated that the police are thoroughly examining all aspects of the tragedy, reviewing footage from CCTV and drone cameras. “Our priority is to ensure the safe completion of the remaining Amrit Snan rituals. Once that is secured, we will expedite the investigation,” he added.
The Maha Kumbh, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, has now come under heightened security surveillance as authorities work to ensure the safety of millions of devotees.
