CM Yogi Adityanath Says UP Govt Didn't Allow Mahakumbh Stampede Coverage Because...

Speaking at an event organised by the Indian Institute of Management and Indian Postal Service in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed a question on Mahakumbh Stampede and shed light on 'why his government didn't allow to highlight the saddening incident'.

UP CM praised the swift actions taken by his government following the Mahakumbh stampede on January 29. He commended the police for their effective crowd management and security measures. The chief minister highlighted that timely medical assistance was provided to victims, preventing widespread panic among the eight crore devotees present in Prayagraj during the Kumbh Mela.

"We did not allow the incident to be excessively highlighted as eight crore devotees and sadhus were present in Prayagraj and the Kumbh Mela area at the time and panic could have worsened the situation," he stated.

Challenges at Mahakumbh

The stampede, which occurred at Sangam ghat on Mauni Amavasya, resulted in 30 fatalities and 60 injuries. Adityanath explained that managing bathing orders among Akharas is a significant challenge during such events. Disputes over this order have historically arisen, making it crucial to ensure rituals proceed smoothly at their scheduled times.

Despite the tragedy, all Akhadas were ready to continue with their 'snan'. However, the administration intervened to delay it. "I personally requested them to delay the ritual to manage the situation," Adityanath said. Officials monitored crowds closely, evacuated Sangam by noon, and resumed 'snan' by 2:30 PM.

Crisis Management and Leadership

Adityanath underscored effective crisis management's role in ensuring smooth event execution. "In difficult situations, many people panic and give up, but we must develop the strength to make firm decisions with patience and control," he noted. He stressed coordination among stakeholders like devotees, sadhus, and officials as vital for success.

The chief minister also highlighted how true leadership involves tackling challenges calmly. "When faced with adversity, many people give up, assuming that things will take their course. However, true leadership lies in tackling challenges with composure, just as we did during Maha Kumbh to ensure its smooth execution," he remarked.

Maha Kumbh's Global Significance

The Maha Kumbh occurs every 12 years and draws millions globally, posing crowd management challenges for authorities. This year saw over 66 crore pilgrims attending, which Uttar Pradesh government considers a major success. Adityanath cited patience and resilience as key factors in handling difficult situations effectively.

Speaking at a programme titled "Nation-Building through Successful Organization of Mahakumbh," he discussed how effective crisis management ensured an orderly event. The CM noted that Mahakumbh teaches patience and adherence to natural laws.

Changing Perceptions

Referring to past reports by international media and UNESCO associating Maha Kumbh with chaos and mismanagement, Adityanath aimed to change this perception in 2019. "When we step away from the beaten path and do something different, it becomes memorable," he said.

Recalling an incident from 2013 Kumbh when Mauritius' Prime Minister visited but refrained from taking a dip due to pollution concerns, Adityanath shared his disappointment over inadequate preparations then. "This incident stayed with me... A foreign dignitary came to our sacred event and left disappointed," he recalled.