Maha Kumbh Stampede Inquiry: Seeking Justice for the Missing

The Allahabad High Court will hear a public interest litigation (PIL) regarding missing persons from the January 29 Maha Kumbh stampede. The PIL calls for a judicial committee to investigate poor conditions for victim bodies and reports of negligence. A judicial commission is already probing the incident.

The Allahabad High Court is scheduled to hear a public interest litigation (PIL) on February 19, addressing the tragic events of January 29, when a stampede during the Maha Kumbh resulted in multiple casualties and missing individuals.

The PIL, brought forth by Suresh Chandra Pandey from Prayagraj, pushes for the establishment of a judicial monitoring committee to meticulously investigate the circumstances and whereabouts of those missing. The petition highlights alarming reports about the handling of victims' bodies, described as being left in degrading conditions, wrapped in gunny bags without refrigeration, causing decomposition.

The issue reached the Supreme Court, which redirected the petitioner to the Allahabad High Court. Despite the formation of a three-member judicial commission led by retired Allahabad HC Judge Harsh Kumar, there remain calls for accountability and transparent investigation into the tragic event at the Sangam nose, which resulted in 30 fatalities and injured 60 others.