Report suggests 79 pilgrims died in Kumbh Mela stampede, far exceeding official toll
IndependentJAN 30
India: New Delhi Station Stampede Kills at Least 18
Above: Passengers jostle with each other to board a train at the New Delhi Railway station on Feb. 16, 2025. Image copyright: Imtiyaz Khan/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This tragedy is a clear administrative failure, as proper arrangements should have been made given the expected surge of devotees. The central government, the state government, and the railway administration have totally failed to ensure proper crowd management or provide adequate security personnel to control the situation. This isn't a disaster; it's a cold-blooded murder, and the authorities are trying to cover up instead of taking responsibility.
Narrative B
The stampede was caused by unexpected delays and sudden crowd surges within 10 minutes. Railway authorities responded promptly by deploying special trains and implementing emergency measures to control the chaos. The situation is under control, and the passengers have been sent by special train. The guilty will be held accountable, but right now, the priority is to assist all those who have been affected by this unfortunate incident.