If what sources have revealed is true, investigations into the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela, which resulted in the deaths of 30 people and left over 60 others injured on January 29, have now shifted focus to a potential conspiracy
The stampede occurred near the Sangam area, where a vast crowd had gathered for a holy dip during the Mauni Amavasya festival.
Sources informed us that authorities are analysing data from over a whooping 16,000 mobile numbers that were active around the Sangam Nose area, the epicentre of the incident, on the fateful day.
Interestingly, many of these numbers are reported to be switched off, adding a layer to the 'conspiracy' angle.
Investigators are also employing facial recognition technology to identify suspects who might have ignited the chaos, using CCTV footage collected from surveillance cameras in the control room.
Also read: Maha Kumbh: Over 29 crore devotees take holy dip at Triveni Sangam
Authorities are now on high alert, particularly as the third Amrit Snan is set to take place on Monday, coinciding with the occasion of Vasant Panchami.
A three-member judicial commission, appointed by the Uttar Pradesh government to investigate the stampede, visited the site on Friday.
The commission has been given one month to complete its inquiry and submit a report on the tragic incident.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13 and will run until February 26, is expected to attract around 40 crore pilgrims, making it the largest spiritual gathering in the world.
The festival, held once every 12 years, draws vast crowds, and this year’s Mauni Amavasya saw a particularly heavy turnout.
The stampede occurred when large numbers of devotees, eager to take part in the auspicious bath, jumped barricades, resulting in the crushing of those who were already waiting their turn. Most of the victims hailed from Bihar.
Also read: VVIP passes scrapped, traffic curbs enforced post Maha Kumbh stampede
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