Kumbh stampede: Conspiracy suspected, 16,000 mobile numbers under probe
What's the story
Investigations into the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on January 29 have now turned to look at a possible conspiracy. The incident left 30 dead and over 60 injured. Authorities are now looking at data comprising over 16,000 mobile numbers, which were active in the Sangam Nose area during the incident. Interestingly, the probe says that many of these numbers are now switched off.
Technological assistance
Facial recognition and CCTV footage aid in investigation
Along with mobile data analysis, investigators are also using facial recognition technology to identify possible suspects from CCTV footage. The Maha Kumbh Mela, a religious gathering held once in 12 years, started on January 13 and will conclude on February 26. In the wake of the incident, more police reinforcements have been deployed ahead of the third "Amrit Snan" on Vasant Panchami.
Political accusations
UP government accused of concealing true death toll
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has accused the Uttar Pradesh government of downplaying the actual number of deaths to evade compensating victims' families. He said, "The UP government and the Chief Minister have failed morally and politically as well." Yadav is demanding transparency in this matter and urged authorities to release a comprehensive list of those who lost their lives in the stampede.
Commission formation
Judicial commission established to investigate stampede
A three-member judicial commission has been constituted to investigate the stampede in detail. The panel includes retired Allahabad High Court judge Harsh Kumar, former DGP VK Gupta, and retired IAS officer DK Singh. They have visited the site of the incident to gather information and are likely to submit their report in a month. The Uttar Pradesh government set up this commission on January 29, after the tragedy exposed administrative shortcomings.
Expanded probe
Investigation extends to other stampede-like incidents
The investigation is also examining reports of similar stampede-like incidents at other festival locations. Witnesses claimed overcrowding and possible fatalities at Mahaveer Marg intersection, about 3km from Sangam Nose. Authorities are scanning CCTV footage to corroborate these claims. The judicial panel is looking into topographical factors and event sequences that may have led to overcrowding at these spots.