A recent investigation by BBC Hindi has uncovered a grim reality surrounding the Kumbh Mela, the world's largest religious gathering, where official death tolls underestimated the actual fatalities. While the government reports 37 deaths from a crowd crush on January 29, BBC's investigative work found evidence of at least 44 additional deceased. This includes 26 cases where families received compensation of 500,000 rupees each and 18 others with no financial support at all.
Kumbh Mela Crush: BBC Uncovers Real Death Toll and Compensation Controversy
Kumbh Mela Crush: BBC Uncovers Real Death Toll and Compensation Controversy
A shocking investigation reveals the true extent of fatalities and compensation mishandling during India's Kumbh Mela festival.
On March 25, local police distributed cash to bereaved families, prompting claims that many signed documents incorrectly attributing deaths to pre-existing health issues rather than the crush itself. The investigation detailed that four separate crush incidents took place, contrary to claims from authorities that there was only one significant event.
Families have shared their harrowing accounts, with evidence such as post-mortem documents confirming the identities of the deceased. The investigation highlights disturbing patterns within the tragedy’s aftermath, including inconsistent compensation distribution and ongoing denial from government officials regarding the death toll.
Despite the initial promises from Uttar Pradesh's government, many families still await justice and acknowledgment for their losses, signaling the need for deeper scrutiny into the protective measures at large public events.
Many families lament that while the Kumbh Mela attracted millions, the support and transparency expected from authorities fell severely short, leaving them to navigate grief and bureaucratic hurdles alone. They contended that despite higher scrutiny, they were simply part of a system that overlooked their pain during what should have been a sacred gathering.
The BBC will continue to monitor the situation as families demand recognition and accountability from those in power.
For continuous updates, follow BBC News India on social media platforms including Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook.
Families have shared their harrowing accounts, with evidence such as post-mortem documents confirming the identities of the deceased. The investigation highlights disturbing patterns within the tragedy’s aftermath, including inconsistent compensation distribution and ongoing denial from government officials regarding the death toll.
Despite the initial promises from Uttar Pradesh's government, many families still await justice and acknowledgment for their losses, signaling the need for deeper scrutiny into the protective measures at large public events.
Many families lament that while the Kumbh Mela attracted millions, the support and transparency expected from authorities fell severely short, leaving them to navigate grief and bureaucratic hurdles alone. They contended that despite higher scrutiny, they were simply part of a system that overlooked their pain during what should have been a sacred gathering.
The BBC will continue to monitor the situation as families demand recognition and accountability from those in power.
For continuous updates, follow BBC News India on social media platforms including Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook.
