Tragedy at New Delhi Railway Station: 15 Killed in Stampede Amid Maha Kumbh Rush

"Overcrowding Due to Train Delays Sparks Panic; High-Level Inquiry Ordered"

New Delhi – A horrific stampede at the New Delhi railway station on Saturday night left at least 15 people dead, including 10 women and three children, after an unprecedented rush of passengers led to chaos. The incident occurred around 8 PM on platforms 14 and 15 as devotees waited for trains to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh pilgrimage.

Videos from the scene show a massive crowd struggling to board an incoming train, with panic spreading as passengers realized that not all would make it inside. Officials reported that the delay of two scheduled trains worsened the situation, leading to an uncontrolled surge. The Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Delhi Police later brought the situation under control.

The injured were rushed to Lok Nayak Hospital, where medical authorities confirmed the death toll. A high-level inquiry has been ordered into the tragedy.

Political Reactions and Government Response

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X, stating, “Distressed by the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

The Congress party slammed the government for its failure to manage the rush, questioning why additional trains were not arranged despite knowing the Maha Kumbh was underway. In a statement, it demanded that the government ensure proper arrangements for the safe return of the deceased to their families.

The Indian Railways, in its official response, downplayed the situation, calling it a “stampede-like situation” triggered by rumors. It assured the public that emergency measures were taken to aid the injured and clear congestion.

Questions Over Crowd Management

This tragic incident raises concerns over the preparedness of railway authorities during peak travel seasons. With millions traveling for religious gatherings like the Maha Kumbh, the lack of additional trains and poor crowd control measures have once again come under scrutiny.

As grieving families mourn their loss, the nation awaits accountability and answers from the authorities.