Tejashwi Yadav Expresses Condolences Over New Delhi Railway Station Stampede, Critiques Central Government

Synopsis
Tejashwi Yadav, leader of the RJD, expresses deep sorrow for the 18 lives lost in the New Delhi Railway Station stampede. He criticizes the Central government for neglecting public safety and focusing on media image rather than aiding the common people during such tragedies.
Key Takeaways
- Tejashwi Yadav expresses condolences for the stampede victims.
- Criticism directed at the Central government for safety negligence.
- Focus on media PR over public welfare condemned.
- Stampede resulted from overcrowding at New Delhi Railway Station.
- Investigation initiated to improve crowd management.
Patna, Feb 16 (NationPress) Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav has conveyed his profound grief regarding the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, which resulted in the loss of 18 lives.
Tejashwi, serving as the opposition leader in the Bihar Assembly, criticized the Central government for allegedly attempting to obscure the incident rather than addressing the urgent need for public safety.
He further condemned the double-engine government for prioritizing media publicity over the welfare of devotees, asserting that government efforts are primarily directed towards VIP amenities, leaving ordinary citizens neglected.
"The heart is heavy with sorrow over the premature deaths resulting from the chaos and stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. In spite of ample government resources, devotees are losing their lives while the double-engine government is engaged in public relations efforts to mask these unfortunate events," he remarked.
"During this period of mourning, my thoughts are with the grieving families. I offer prayers for serenity for the lost souls and a swift recovery for the wounded. Om Shanti," said the former Deputy Chief Minister.
This occurrence has ignited a political discussion, with the opposition directing its criticism at the BJP-led Central government.
The stampede erupted at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night amid a massive crowd and disorder on platforms 13 and 14.
Several injured individuals are receiving treatment at Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital and Lady Hardinge Hospital in Delhi. The death toll may increase as some of the injured remain in critical condition.
At least three individuals from Bihar have perished in this incident. Authorities are presently working to identify the deceased and extend assistance to the affected families.
Railway officials have acknowledged that overcrowding was the main factor contributing to the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night.
An official stated that the Prayagraj Express was positioned at platform 14, drawing a large number of passengers, while the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani Express faced delays, exacerbating the congestion.
DCP Railway of New Delhi KPS Malhotra remarked: "The Prayagraj Express was stationed at platform 14, leading to an overwhelming rush. Due to the late arrival of the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani Express, the crowd on platforms 12, 13, and 14 swelled, causing panic and chaos, which resulted in the stampede."
Authorities are now probing the failures in crowd management and aim to implement improved safety protocols at railway stations during peak times.