‘VIP culture’ Opposition Slams UP Government Over Maha kumbh Stampede, Calls for Resignations
A tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj has led to a fierce political backlash against the Uttar Pradesh government. On the holy day of Mauni Amavasya, when millions gathered for the sacred dip at Sangam, chaos ensued, leaving several injured and feared dead.
Opposition’s Strong Critique
The Congress party, led by its president, has accused the Yogi Adityanath-led government of prioritizing self-promotion over effective event management. Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, pointed fingers at the “VIP culture” for the mismanagement, urging the government to overhaul its system to prevent future tragedies.
Mallikarjun Kharge, another opposition leader, criticized the “half-baked arrangements” despite significant financial outlay for the event, emphasizing the need for better facilities for common devotees over VIP movements.
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Akhilesh Yadav’s Demand
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav went further, lambasting the state for its “false propaganda” about a “world-class system”. He called for moral responsibility from the government, suggesting resignation and even proposing the Indian Army take over event management to restore trust among attendees.
Government’s Response
Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath, in response, has been in constant communication with PM Narendra Modi, briefing him on the situation. He urged the public to ignore rumors and avoid the overcrowded Sangam Nose for safety, suggesting alternative ghats for the holy dip. The CM highlighted the government’s efforts, including medical treatment for the injured and continuous monitoring by top officials.
Safety Measures and Appeals
In light of the incident, leaders like Arvind Kejriwal and Mayawati have appealed for caution among devotees, emphasizing patience and adherence to safety directives. The Akharas, traditional groups at the Kumbh, decided to cancel the Amrit Snan, yet many devotees still proceeded with their spiritual rituals at various ghats.
The incident has not only highlighted the challenges of managing an event of this scale but also brought to the forefront the need for better planning and execution when hosting millions. As the Maha Kumbh continues, all eyes will be on how the government responds to this tragedy and implements changes for the safety of pilgrims.
This event underscores the importance of robust crowd management strategies and the political accountability that comes with organizing such large gatherings. As the Kumbh Mela is not just a religious event but a symbol of India’s cultural heritage, the response to this stampede will be closely watched by both the nation and the world.
