As the investigation into the tragic stampede at the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj intensifies, authorities are now focusing on a possible conspiracy that may have contributed to the incident. The January 29 stampede, which occurred during the Mauni Amavasya bathing festival, claimed the lives of 30 pilgrims and left more than 60 others injured. The disaster took place at the Sangam Nose area, where massive crowds had gathered for a holy dip at one of the world’s most spiritually significant events.
Facial Recognition Technology and Data Analysis
Investigators are utilizing advanced tools, including facial recognition technology, to identify suspects who may have played a role in the tragedy. According to sources, authorities are analyzing data from over 16,000 mobile numbers that were active in the Sangam Nose area on the day of the incident. Surprisingly, many of these numbers are now inactive, raising suspicions about their possible connection to the stampede.
CCTV footage collected from the control room is being carefully scrutinized, and a facial recognition app is being used to pinpoint individuals who might have contributed to the chaos. One viral video circulating online shows a woman, reportedly from Bihar, describing how a group of men suddenly began shouting and forcefully pushing their way through the crowd. She believes this unexpected commotion caused many pilgrims to lose their balance and stumble, potentially triggering the tragic stampede.
Authorities hope that the use of AI-powered surveillance cameras and facial recognition technology will provide clarity on whether such deliberate actions were a factor in the disaster.
Increased Security Ahead of the Third Amrit Snan
As the investigation unfolds, the police ramped up security measures ahead of the third Amrit Snan, scheduled for Monday morning on the auspicious occasion of Vasant Panchami. Additional reinforcements have been deployed to the premises to ensure the safety of the millions of devotees expected to attend.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is the largest spiritual gathering on the planet. This year’s event began on January 13 and will continue until February 26. The Uttar Pradesh government, which is hosting the fair, anticipates a total footfall of around 40 crore pilgrims throughout the festival.
Following the third Amrit Snan, two more major bathing days are on the calendar. The fourth Maha Snan will occur on Magh Purnima, scheduled for February 12, while the final Snan will take place on Maha Shivratri on February 26.
Judicial Commission Investigates the Stampede
In the wake of the disaster, a three-member judicial commission has been set up by the Uttar Pradesh government to investigate the circumstances leading to the stampede. The panel, tasked with uncovering the root causes of the tragedy, recently visited the incident site. The commission has one month to conclude its inquiry and submit a comprehensive report.
According to preliminary findings, the stampede may have been caused by pilgrims jumping over barricades, resulting in the crushing of those waiting for their turn on the other side. However, investigators are also probing whether there was any foul play involved, as suggested by witness accounts and the analysis of mobile data.
Impact of the Stampede
The stampede has left a lasting impact on the victims and their families. Most of the deceased were from Bihar, and the incident has cast a shadow over what is otherwise a joyous and spiritually uplifting event. The injured continue to recover, with many still grappling with the trauma of the incident.
As authorities work to uncover the truth and implement measures to prevent such tragedies in the future, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of pilgrims for the remainder of the Maha Kumbh Mela.
A Gathering of Unprecedented Scale
The Maha Kumbh Mela is a once-in-12-year event that attracts millions of devotees from across India and around the world. This year’s gathering is especially significant, with millions coming to Prayagraj to take a holy dip in the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. The Uttar Pradesh government has made extensive preparations to manage the crowds and ensure a smooth and safe experience for all attendees.
The use of cutting-edge technology, such as AI cameras and facial recognition, underscores the scale and complexity of organizing an event of this magnitude. As the festival continues, authorities remain vigilant, prioritizing the safety and well-being of the millions of pilgrims participating in this sacred celebration.