Judicial Panel Begins Probe into Maha Kumbh Stampede, Aims for Swift Conclusion

Featured & Cover Judicial Panel Begins Probe into Maha Kumbh Stampede Aims for Swift Conclusion

The three-member judicial commission appointed by the Uttar Pradesh government to investigate the causes of the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh has a one-month deadline to complete its inquiry but will attempt to speed up the process, said panel head Harsh Kumar on Thursday, January 30, 2025.

Mr. Kumar, a retired judge, told PTI that the commission members would soon visit Prayagraj as part of their investigation.

Panel Takes Charge Immediately

Along with Mr. Kumar, the panel includes former Director General of Police (DGP) V.K. Gupta and retired IAS officer D.K. Singh. The three officials reached their designated office on Thursday and immediately began their work, according to an official statement.

“We have taken charge within hours of the announcement as the probe has to be taken up on priority,” Mr. Kumar said, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.

Efforts to Expedite the Inquiry

Regarding the investigation’s timeline, Mr. Kumar stated, “We have a one-month timeline but all the same, we will try to expedite it.” However, he did not specify when the commission members would visit Prayagraj.

When asked whether each member of the panel would investigate different aspects of the incident, Mr. Kumar responded, “We will discuss this amongst ourselves. Can’t go into detail right now.”

Stampede at the Sangam Area

The tragic incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday at the Sangam area of the Maha Kumbh, as millions of devotees gathered to take a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya, one of the most sacred days in the Hindu calendar. At least 30 people lost their lives, and around 60 others sustained injuries in the stampede.

Overcrowding and Barricade Breach

According to police reports, the stampede happened when the crowd breached barricades, leading to a crushing situation for those waiting on the other side. Authorities have since intensified crowd management efforts to prevent further incidents.

The judicial panel is expected to analyze these factors closely and submit its findings within the given timeframe.

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