Lalu Prasad Accuses Uttar Pradesh Government of Concealing Mahakumbh Stampede Casualties
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Synopsis
Lalu Prasad Yadav has accused the Uttar Pradesh government of hiding the true death toll from the Mahakumbh stampede that occurred on January 29, leading to allegations of a lack of transparency and accountability. Opposition parties demand justice and compensation for families affected by the tragedy.
Key Takeaways
- Mahakumbh stampede resulted in around 30 deaths.
- Political uproar in Bihar following the incident.
- Lalu Prasad Yadav alleges UP government is concealing figures.
- Calls for compensation to victims' families have been made.
- Concerns raised about crowd management at the event.
Patna, Jan 31 (NationPress) The Mahakumbh stampede that occurred in Prayagraj on January 29, resulting in approximately 30 fatalities and numerous injuries, has ignited a political uproar in Bihar. Opposition factions have criticized the Yogi Adityanath-led government of Uttar Pradesh, urging for openness and accountability in the wake of this tragedy.
In this climate, Lalu Prasad Yadav, the former Chief Minister of Bihar and leader of the RJD, has accused the UP government of concealing the true death count.
He stated on Facebook: "Several individuals from Bihar have perished in the Kumbh stampede. The government of Uttar Pradesh is obscuring the death figures. Numerous devotees have lost their lives. Such officials and leaders should at least possess some fear of God."
Lalu Prasad's remarks imply that the real death toll could be significantly higher than what has been officially acknowledged, intensifying the political discourse as opposition parties call for increased transparency regarding the tragedy.
Earlier, Tejashwi Yadav urged the government to offer compensation to the families affected and to facilitate the prompt return of deceased individuals to Bihar.
On January 29, approximately 10 crore pilgrims gathered at the Mahakumbh Mela to bathe on the auspicious day of Mauni Amavasya. The stampede occurred in the early morning hours, around 2 a.m., due to the overwhelming crowd.
So far, the Uttar Pradesh government has not addressed Lalu Prasad's allegations.
Authorities have promised ongoing investigations and relief efforts for both the injured and the families of the victims.
This incident has raised alarms about crowd control and safety protocols at one of the largest religious gatherings globally. The opposition is anticipated to amplify its demands for accountability from the Uttar Pradesh government in the upcoming days.
The Mahakumbh Mela 2025 began on January 13 and is set to run until February 26, with significant bathing dates drawing millions of devotees.
