Probe launched after deadly Kumbh Mela stampede in Prayagraj

A deadly stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela festival in Prayagraj, India, resulted in at least 30 deaths and numerous injuries as millions gathered for a holy dip in sacred rivers. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has ordered a judicial inquiry into the incident, which occurred due to crowd mismanagement as pilgrims attempted to jump barricades. Eyewitnesses and families of victims have criticized police for inadequate crowd control, while the state government defended their response, claiming it prevented a larger disaster. Authorities are implementing measures to improve crowd management, including deploying additional transport services and establishing holding areas for devotees. The festival, expected to attract around 400 million attendees over six weeks, has sparked calls for better planning to avoid future incidents. As investigations continue, the discrepancy in reported death tolls remains a concern.