Maha Kumbh is Useless: Lalu Prasad Yadav on Delhi Railway Station Stampede
A stampede occurred at New Delhi Railway Station last night (Saturday), resulting in the tragic deaths of 18 people. This incident has caused nationwide concern and outrage. Meanwhile, former Union Railway Minister and RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav has blamed the railway authorities for mismanagement.
Speaking on the issue, Lalu Prasad Yadav stated, “This incident is very unfortunate. Due to the mismanagement of the railways, so many lives have been lost. The Railway Minister should take responsibility for this.” When asked about crowd management for the Mahakumbh Mela, he controversially remarked, “Kumbh has no meaning. Kumbh is useless.” This statement was reported by news agency ANI.
The stampede reportedly occurred between 10 PM and 11 PM on Saturday night. Rumors spread that two trains bound for Prayagraj from platform numbers 14 and 15 had been canceled. This led to panic among devotees, triggering the stampede. In response, an inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the incident.
Rahul Gandhi Criticizes Railway Administration and Government
Before Lalu Prasad Yadav’s remarks, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also criticized the railway administration and the government for inadequate arrangements at railway stations during the Mahakumbh Mela.
In a post on X, he wrote:
“The news of the deaths of many people and injuries to others in the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station is deeply saddening and painful. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. This incident has once again exposed the failure of the railways and the insensitivity of the government. Considering the number of devotees traveling to Prayagraj, proper arrangements should have been made at the station. The government and administration must ensure that no one loses their life due to mismanagement and negligence.”
Compensation for the Victims
Railway Board Executive Director (Information and Publicity) Dilip Kumar announced on Sunday that a two-member high-level committee has been formed to investigate the causes of the stampede. Additionally, financial assistance will be provided to the victims and their families. The compensation includes:
- ₹10 lakh for the families of the deceased,
- ₹2.5 lakh for those seriously injured, and
- ₹1 lakh for those with minor injuries.
