New Delhi, February 3, 2025 – The Supreme Court of India on Monday declined to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) related to the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela, calling it an “unfortunate incident.” Instead, the bench advised the petitioner to approach the Allahabad High Court, which holds jurisdiction over the matter.
The stampede, which occurred during the Basant Panchami Amrit Snan, resulted in several casualties and injuries, raising serious concerns about crowd management and safety measures at one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
SC’s Stance on the Petition
A Supreme Court bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, heard the PIL but stated that the Allahabad High Court was the appropriate forum to address the issue. The court observed:
🗣 “The incident is indeed unfortunate, and the concerns raised are valid. However, the petitioner should first seek relief from the Allahabad High Court, which is better suited to examine the facts and direct necessary action.”
While the SC acknowledged the seriousness of the tragedy, it refrained from interfering at this stage, emphasizing judicial hierarchy and procedural propriety.
The Maha Kumbh Stampede: What Happened?
📍 Location: Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
📅 Date: February 2, 2025
📌 Event: Basant Panchami Amrit Snan
The stampede occurred at Sangam Ghat when an overwhelming number of devotees gathered for the third major ‘Amrit Snan’ (holy dip) at the Kumbh Mela. Initial reports suggest that:
Over 30 lakh devotees had arrived for the holy bath.
A sudden surge in the crowd led to panic and chaos.
Several people were injured, and multiple fatalities were reported.
Authorities struggled to manage the rush despite heavy police deployment.
Petitioner’s Arguments
The PIL, filed by social activist Rajesh Kumar, argued that:
Gross mismanagement led to avoidable casualties.
The government failed to provide adequate crowd control measures.
Compensation should be given to the victims and their families.
The authorities must be held accountable for the lapses in planning and execution.
Government and Administration’s Response
Following the tragedy, the Uttar Pradesh government led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered an immediate probe into the incident. The administration has:
✔ Formed a special committee to investigate the cause.
✔ Increased the deployment of security personnel.
✔ Strengthened medical and emergency response teams.
✔ Announced compensation for affected families.
📌 UP DGP Prashant Kumar: “We are reviewing security arrangements and making necessary changes to prevent such incidents in the future.”
Political Reactions and Public Outcry
The tragedy has drawn strong reactions from political leaders and civil society groups.
📌 Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra: “The government must be held accountable for its failure in managing crowd safety at such a crucial event.”
📌 Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav: “The stampede reflects a complete lack of planning by the administration.”
However, BJP leaders defended the government’s response, stating that unprecedented crowd turnout made management difficult.
📌 BJP Spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia: “The UP government is taking all necessary steps to ensure safety. Political blame games won’t help.”
What Happens Next?
✅ Allahabad High Court Hearing: The petitioner is expected to file a fresh appeal in the Allahabad HC.
✅ Inquiry Report: The special committee’s findings will determine further actions.
✅ Stronger Crowd Control: Authorities are likely to tighten restrictions and increase security personnel at upcoming events.
Final Thoughts
The Supreme Court’s decision to decline the PIL shifts the responsibility to the Allahabad High Court, which may order corrective measures. Meanwhile, the focus remains on ensuring safety at upcoming Maha Kumbh events, as millions continue to visit Prayagraj for religious rituals.
As investigations progress, families of the victims hope for justice, accountability, and better crowd management to prevent future tragedies.
