Mahakumbh VIP Arrangements: Controversy Over Special Facilities Amid Stampede Tragedy
The Muhurta of Mauni Amavasya is considered sacred for the royal bath at the Mahakumbh Mela. On this auspicious occasion, a massive crowd of devotees gathered in Prayagraj for the holy dip. However, later that night, some devotees crossed the barricades and rushed towards Sangam Ghat, trampling people who were sleeping on the road. This tragic stampede resulted in the death of 30 devotees.
In response to the incident, the Yogi Adityanath government has introduced new regulations, including the cancellation of VVIP passes and a ban on private vehicles at the event. However, anger is now rising after influencers filmed exclusive VIP arrangements at the event.
Influencer’s Video Sparks Outrage
An influencer named Tanya Mittal posted a video on Instagram, claiming that while there were huge crowds at the general ghats, the VVIP Ghat remained empty. In her video, she says, “There is no crowd at all at the VVIP Ghat. The atmosphere here is peaceful, and the water of Triveni Sangam also reaches this Ghat.” The video also reveals that bouncers have been deployed at the VIP Ghat for security.
This has led to widespread criticism on social media. Many users, including an X (Twitter) user named Pranav Bhardwaj, shared the video, criticizing the VIP culture at religious events. Many have commented, saying that there should be no VIP privileges at places like temples and Mahakumbh.
Complaints About Lack of Facilities for General Devotees
Meanwhile, another video of a woman has gone viral, highlighting the lack of changing facilities at the general ghats. Many women have complained that they feel uncomfortable and struggle to change clothes in the open after taking a dip in the cold water. Several videos showing these issues have surfaced online.
However, some users have countered these claims by sharing photos that show changing facilities available at every ghat.
Dangerous Stunts at the Mahakumbh Mela
Another viral video shows a large crowd gathered on a bridge over the river. A man is seen walking outside the bridge railing to cross over. Several devotees filmed the incident and urged him to move back inside the railing to avoid a dangerous accident.
The Mahakumbh Mela continues to draw massive crowds, and authorities are now under pressure to address security concerns and ensure equal facilities for all devotees.
