Synopsis
On February 3, Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, claimed that thousands died in the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh stampede, sparking significant controversy and protests from ruling members.Key Takeaways
- Kharge's controversial claim about the death toll.
- Maha Kumbh stampede occurred during Amrit Snan.
- Official figures report 30 fatalities and 60 injuries.
- Protests erupted from ruling alliance members.
- Opposition criticized safety measures at the event.
New Delhi, Feb 3 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge ignited a major debate on Monday by asserting that “thousands perished” in the stampede at the Maha Kumbh site in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
He did, however, stipulate that he would apologize for his statement under certain conditions.
The unfortunate incident, which occurred due to overcrowding at the Maha Kumbh on January 29 during the Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya—a day deemed auspicious for sacred baths—claimed the lives of 30 individuals and resulted in at least 60 injuries, according to officials.
Authorities indicated that a vast crowd aiming to reach the ghat for holy dips broke through barricades, triggering the stampede.
Kharge, who also serves as Congress chief, stated that the “thousands of deaths” at the Maha Kumbh was his personal assessment, seemingly refusing to acknowledge the official death toll.
“I pay my respects to those who lost their lives at the Maha Kumbh... the thousands who died in Kumbh,” he remarked, prompting protests from ruling alliance members.
“This is my estimate, and if it is inaccurate, you (government) should clarify the truth,” Kharge continued.
“I did not mention ‘thousands’ to place blame on anyone. But how many people died? Please provide that information. I will apologize if I am mistaken. They should disclose the figures—how many died, how many are still missing,” he added.
Kharge’s statement sparked fervent protests from government benches, and Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar requested him to retract his assertion.
“The LoP has suggested a scenario using figures that reach into the thousands. I implore him, in this House, that whatever is expressed carries significant weight. What you have stated has shocked everyone,” Dhankhar commented.
“A message that emanates from here, even if it is refuted, resonates throughout the world. Can you truly claim such figures? I appeal to you as one of the senior-most leaders in this nation; if you state a figure in the thousands, I can only appeal to your conscience,” Dhankhar remarked.
Opposition parties have criticized the Centre and the UP government for allegedly neglecting safety measures at the Maha Kumbh Mela, especially when it was expected that substantial crowds would arrive for holy dips on certain auspicious occasions.
