Three-Member Judicial Panel Arrives in Maha Kumbh to Investigate Stampede Tragedy
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A Judicial Enquiry Commission is set to arrive in Prayagraj on Friday to investigate the stampede at the Maha Kumbh that resulted in 30 fatalities and 60 injuries. The panel will meet with administrative officials before visiting the stampede site, as measures are taken to enhance safety during the religious event.
Key Takeaways
- Judicial Enquiry Commission formed for investigation.
- 30 deaths and 60 injuries reported due to stampede.
- Panel to meet with officials before visiting the site.
- Uttar Pradesh government announces compensation.
- Legal action sought against negligent officials.
New Delhi, Jan 31 (NationPress) A Judicial Enquiry Commission has been established to investigate the factors leading to the devastating stampede at the ongoing Maha Kumbh, which tragically claimed 30 lives and left 60 others injured. The commission is scheduled to arrive in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, at approximately 1 pm on Friday.
The team departed from Lucknow around 8 am and is expected to reach its destination by 1 pm.
Upon arrival, the Judicial Enquiry Commission will convene a meeting at 2 pm with all relevant administrative officials responsible for overseeing the extensive arrangements for this significant event. Following this discussion, they will proceed to the site of the stampede.
The three-member judicial panel, commissioned by the government to delve into the causes of the incident, includes Justice Harsh Kumar, former Director General V.K. Gupta, and retired IAS officer V.K. Singh.
In response to the tragedy, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a compensation package of Rs 25 lakh for the families of the deceased.
Coincidentally, a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) was submitted to the Supreme Court on Thursday, calling for legal accountability against officials for their alleged “negligent conduct.”
The petition highlights the dire state of affairs faced by attendees due to lapses and failures on the part of the administration.
In addition to the alleged “failure to maintain and manage the event,” the plea accuses authorities of inadequately controlling the crowds gathered for the occasion.
Meanwhile, the UP government has instituted strict measures in Prayagraj following the tragedy, which occurred as millions of devotees flocked to the area for a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya, one of the Kumbh Mela's most significant days.
The government stated that the stampede was instigated by devotees pushing against barricades as they attempted to reach the Sangam nose area.
In the aftermath, the state government has implemented five critical changes to enhance safety and order.
The entry of all vehicle types into the Maha Kumbh fair area is strictly forbidden; no special passes will permit vehicle entry, with no exceptions; a one-way traffic system has been introduced to facilitate the movement of devotees; vehicles arriving from neighboring districts are being halted at district borders to alleviate congestion.
Additionally, entry of four-wheelers into the city is entirely prohibited until February 4 to ensure public safety.
To bolster crowd management efforts, IAS officers Ashish Goyal and Bhanu Goswami have been directed to Prayagraj, as both played pivotal roles in successfully managing the 2019 Ardh Kumbh, alongside Vijay Kiran.
During that event, Bhanu Goswami acted as the District Magistrate and Vice Chairman of the Kumbh Mela Authority, while Ashish Goyal served as the Commissioner of Allahabad, overseeing the overall management.
Moreover, five special secretary-rank officers with experience in managing large-scale events have been appointed to support the operations of the Maha Kumbh.
