Subhechcha Ganguly 
The ‘Shahi Snan’ has been canceled by several Akhadas following a stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj. Multiple casualties are feared after the stampede on Wednesday, as thousands gathered for a holy dip in the Ganga on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya, one of the most sacred days of the event. A large number of ambulances were dispatched to the scene, and the injured were taken to the central hospital at the Mela grounds for treatment. Sources familiar with the situation, speaking anonymously, reported that at least 15 bodies have been brought to the hospital.
What happened during the Mauni Amavasya snan:
A stampede-like situation erupted at Sangam early Wednesday morning as millions of pilgrims arrived for the Mauni Amavasya bath. The surge in crowd pressure led Mela authorities to begin sending people back to prevent further incidents.
Announcements were made over the public address system, urging devotees to vacate the ghats after completing their holy bath to make space for others.
In the midst of the stampede chaos, many people left without being able to take a dip on this sacred day.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the situation at the Maha Kumbh through a call with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath after the incident and emphasized the need for immediate support measures.
Modi is closely monitoring the situation and has spoken to Adityanath twice so far, according to official sources.
