TMC's Moitra Criticizes Railways Over Delhi Stampede Video Takedown Demands

TMC leader Mahua Moitra has strongly criticized the Ministry of Railways for requesting the removal of videos depicting a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. She argues there's no legal basis for the demand. Meanwhile, a PIL blames administrative negligence for the incident where 18 were killed.

TMC leader Mahua Moitra on Friday criticized the Ministry of Railways, saying there is no legal justification for its demand to remove videos of the New Delhi stampede. She described the Ministry's claim that such videos 'may create unwarranted law and order situations' as entirely unfounded.

'There is NO legal provision by which @RailMinIndia can ask X to remove videos of ND stampede—totally illegal. Railway's excuse of potential law and order situation is pure and utter nonsense,' Moitra posted on X. Reports indicate the Railways Ministry had requested X to take down videos of the casualties from the February 15 stampede.

The ministry's notice cited 'ethical norms' and the platform's content policy, demanding action within 36 hours. Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has sought an explanation from the Railways concerning a PIL over the stampede, where 18 lives were lost during peak hours at New Delhi Railway Station.

The PIL claims the stampede on Platform No 16 resulted from overcrowding due to several long-distance trains arriving concurrently. It suggests administrative negligence and a violation of the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.

Justice Devendra Kumar Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela have directed the Railway Board to investigate and submit an affidavit on remedial measures. The next hearing is set for March 26. The petition raises concerns over ineffective implementation of the Railways Act, particularly Sections 57 and 147.

On February 15, a stampede occurred as devotees thronged to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh 2025 festival, leading to significant overcrowding. The Ministry of Railways is now planning to build permanent holding areas at approximately 60 stations prone to congestion.

Ministry sources confirm this strategy is part of broader crowd management efforts, incorporating artificial intelligence and advanced technologies for real-time monitoring and crisis management to avert future safety hazards. (ANI)