The recent stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, which killed 30 people and injured 60 more, has once again brought to the forefront the precarious nature of managing such massive gatherings. The incident occurred during the amrit snan on January 29, a day of immense religious significance, when thousands rushed toward the ghats in an overwhelming surge. This tragedy, caused by overcrowding and the collapse of barricades, highlights not only the flaws in crowd control but also the need for urgent reforms in safety protocols at such large-scale events.

The aftermath has sparked political controversy, particularly over the remarks made by Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge, who referred to the death toll as “thousands” based on his own estimate. His comment prompted protests from the ruling benches, with some accusing him of misleading the public. Kharge, however, defended his statement, calling for the government to provide clear figures and take accountability for the tragedy. This exchange only added fuel to the fire of a much-needed debate on public safety at religious events, often marked by unmanageable crowds.

Despite the tragic loss of life, the authorities, including Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, have been proactive in their response, with over 270 trainee police officers deployed to maintain order. VVIP movements were restricted, and attendees were encouraged to disperse across multiple ghats to avoid further crowding. However, these measures are reactive, not proactive. The question remains: Why wasn’t there a more robust safety infrastructure in place to prevent such a catastrophe from occurring?

As the Kumbh continues, the loss of life should serve as a solemn reminder that religious festivals must prioritize human safety just as much as spiritual practices. The real test will be whether the government takes meaningful steps to prevent such disasters in the future.