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Rahul Gandhi Alleges UP Suppressed Maha Kumbh Death Toll
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has accused the Uttar Pradesh government of deliberately underreporting the number of deaths in the January 29 stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. He referenced a BBC News Hindi investigation that claims at least 82 people died—far more than the official count of 37.
Allegation of Concealing Poor Victims
Gandhi posted on X, stating: “BBC report reveals that figures of deaths in Kumbh Mela stampede were hidden. Like in COVID, the bodies of the poor were erased from the statistics. Like after every major railway accident, the truth is suppressed.” He characterized this as part of what he called the “BJP model”—“if there is no counting of the poor, then there is no accountability either”.
Political Figures Back the Claim
Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav echoed Gandhi’s concerns, challenging the UP government’s figures. He contrasted the official death toll of 37 with the BBC’s claim of 82, accusing the government of “false statistics” and calling for transparency in compensation procedures. Yadav questioned why compensation was disbursed in cash, and demanded clarity on authorisation, documentation, and whether records were manipulated.
Stampede Incident & Conflicting Numbers
The January 29 stampede occurred during Mauni Amavasya, when millions of pilgrims gathered at the Sangam for a sacred dip. Official reports cite 30 deaths in the primary crush, with a subsequent incident causing seven more fatalities. Cumulatively, authorities reported 37 deaths and around 60–90 injuries. Independent assessments—including hospital records and media investigations—suggest the toll could range between 79 and 82.
Urgent Call for Accountability
The heightened political fallout reflects growing distrust over official data and administrative transparency. Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav insist that discrepancies must be thoroughly investigated. They stress that accurate death counts are integral to ensuring justice for victims’ families, proper compensation, and preventing future tragedies.
