New Delhi [India], January 30 (HBTV): Leaders across the political spectrum expressed condolences over the tragic stampede incident that occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, killing 30 and injuring several others.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Vaibhav Krishna, in a press conference, stated that 25 bodies have been identified while the remaining five are yet to be identified. 'A total of 30 people have unfortunately died in the stampede that took place at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Twenty-five bodies have been identified, and the remaining five are yet to be identified,' he said.

Among the deceased, four are from Karnataka, one from Assam, and one from Gujarat, the DIG added. Additionally, 36 people are receiving treatment at a local medical college.

The Uttar Pradesh government has announced financial assistance of INR 25 lakh for the families of the deceased. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also ordered a judicial inquiry, stating that a judicial committee will submit its report to the state government within a specified timeframe.

'A three-member judicial commission will be led by Justice Harsh Kumar, former Director General VK Gupta, and retired IAS officer DK Singh. We have been monitoring the entire incident from the CM's, Chief Secretary's, and DGP's control rooms throughout the day,' he said.

To oversee the situation at the Maha Kumbh, CM Yogi has postponed his visit to Delhi for the election campaign scheduled for tomorrow.

Reflecting on the incident, he attributed the accident to heavy crowds and the breaking of barricades. 'The incident is heart-wrenching. We express our deepest condolences to all the families who lost their loved ones. We have been in constant touch with the administration since last night,' CM Yogi stated.

Meanwhile, on the occasion of 'Mauni Amavasya,' over 57.1 million devotees took a holy dip in the Triveni waters today, according to an official statement from the Uttar Pradesh Information Department.

The ongoing religious event has witnessed an overwhelming turnout, with millions gathering at the Triveni Sangam to mark this auspicious day of spiritual cleansing and devotion. The number of Kalpwasis, who observe month-long spiritual austerities, has exceeded 1 million, adding to the spiritual fervor.

The total footfall for the ongoing Magh Mela has now surpassed 199.4 million, even as a brief stampede-like situation occurred due to the overwhelming rush at key bathing ghats.

Leaders from across political parties have expressed grief over the tragedy. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma paid his respects to the deceased devotees and acknowledged the UP administration's efforts in handling the massive influx of pilgrims. 'Twenty-five crore people have visited Maha Kumbh, and more will come. It is a very challenging task. The UP administration is making every effort to ensure the success of the event. I pay my respects to the devotees who passed away, including a devotee from Assam. We are coordinating with the UP government to bring his body back home,' Sarma stated.

Expressing grief, Yog Guru Baba Ramdev urged visitors to practice self-discipline. 'It is unfortunate. I appeal to everyone visiting Maha Kumbh that while the government and administration are fulfilling their duties, we must also exercise self-discipline. The first characteristic of Dharma is patience. If you do not get a chance to go to the Sangam, take a dip wherever possible. I pray for the salvation of those who have passed away,' he said.

Aam Aadmi Party leader Raghav Chadha called on the UP government to reassess its preparedness to prevent future tragedies. 'I pray to Mahadev for the souls of the deceased to rest in peace. I hope the injured recover quickly. The government must review its preparations to enhance safety and prevent such incidents in the future,' Chadha said.

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav also emphasized the need for better arrangements. 'I pray that the souls of the devotees who lost their lives rest in peace. My condolences to their families. Any shortcomings in the arrangements must be rectified,' he said.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren termed the incident unfortunate. 'If such an incident occurs, it is a matter of concern and sorrow. Efforts should be made to prevent such tragedies in the future,' he said.

Union Minister Chirag Paswan also expressed grief over the tragedy. 'I offer my and my party's homage to all the deceased. I wish for the speedy recovery of all the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is continuously monitoring the situation. Measures are being taken to prevent such incidents in the future, and appropriate action will be taken to determine the cause of this tragedy,' he stated.

He also warned against politicizing the incident. 'I urge those who are trying to politicize this tragedy to refrain from doing so. This is not the time for politics,' Paswan added.

(ANI)