Central Government lacks data on Maha Kumbh stampede

Union Minister Nityanand Rai stated that the Central Government does not keep data on the Maha Kumbh stampede. This information was shared in response to questions in the Lok Sabha from Congress MPs concerning casualties from the incident. The stampede occurred on January 29 during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The state police reported that it resulted in 30 deaths and 60 injuries. Rai emphasized that matters of public order and crowd management are responsibilities of state governments, as outlined in the Indian Constitution. He explained that the organization of religious events and ensuring the safety of participants fall under state jurisdiction. Therefore, inquiries into incidents like stampedes and financial aid for affected families are also managed by state authorities. Rai added that the National Disaster Management Authority has provided guidelines for crowd management at large events. The Union Home Ministry has issued advisories to help states develop their crowd control procedures.