Maha Kumbh 2025: Police Constable Assaults IANS Reporter at Mela Ground
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Synopsis
In a troubling incident at the Maha Kumbh, a police constable was caught on video manhandling an IANS correspondent while covering the Kumbh Mela arrangements. This came in the aftermath of a stampede that injured multiple pilgrims. The situation has raised concerns over police conduct during large gatherings.
Key Takeaways
- Police Misconduct: A constable misbehaved with a reporter.
- Major Event: Mauni Amavasya Snan is a significant ritual.
- Stampede Incident: Over 30 pilgrims injured.
- Government Response: Quick action taken by administration.
- Social Media Backlash: Strong reactions against police actions.
Prayagraj, Jan 29 (NationPress) In a disturbing instance of power misuse, a police constable from Uttar Pradesh misconducted with an IANS reporter and attempted to seize his microphone during coverage of the Kumbh Mela arrangements, particularly following a stampede that left numerous pilgrims injured.
IANS journalist Gaurav Pandey was in the process of gathering insights on the movements of Akhadas during the significant Mauni Amavasya Snan this afternoon when he faced rough treatment from the police official.
The incident transpired at Sector 20 of Maha Kumbh Nagar, where the IANS reporter was seeking information from the saints of the Panchayati Akhada named Naya Udaseen Nirwan.
The police's overreach towards the IANS team was recorded on video, showcasing the constable's attempts to obstruct the coverage of Maha Kumbh. This footage has sparked significant outrage on social media, with many condemning the attack by the police constable.
Significantly, Mauni Amavasya Snan is one of the most pivotal baths of Maha Kumbh, as millions of pilgrims have gathered in the holy city to take a sacred dip on this auspicious occasion. The state administration estimated attendance in the millions on Mauni Amavasya alone. Since the commencement of Maha Kumbh on January 26, over 15 crore devotees have immersed themselves in the river Ganga, according to government data.
Earlier today, a stampede occurred at the mela ground as both devotees and saints rushed towards the Sangam for the holy dip. The sudden influx of devotees in the tent city caused chaos, leading to the stampede when some reportedly breached the barricades to reach the 'Sangam'. More than 30 pilgrims sustained injuries in the stampede, and several are feared dead.
The administration acted swiftly, with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath urging devotees to utilize the nearest ghat for their dip and to avoid crowding the ‘Sangam Nose’. The Akhadas were also directed back to their tents and advised to wait until the crowd dispersed.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also had three conversations with UP CM Yogi Adityanath within an hour to assess the situation.
