The three-member judicial commission investigating the Mauni Amavasya snan incident at Maha Kumbh has accelerated its inquiry.
The panel, led by retired Justice Harsh Kumar, held its first meeting with officials in Prayagraj on Friday before conducting an on-site inspection near Sangam Nose, where the tragedy occurred.
Justice Harsh Kumar stated that the commission is meticulously examining the area’s topography and circumstances surrounding the incident.
CCTV footage and other critical evidence will also be analyzed to determine the exact cause of the stampede.
The stampede, which took place during the massive religious gathering on Mauni Amavasya, resulted in 30 fatalities and left 60 others injured.
In response, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath promptly ordered a judicial inquiry and constituted a three-member commission to investigate the matter.
The panel includes retired Allahabad High Court Justice Harsh Kumar, retired IAS officer DK Singh, and retired IPS officer VK Gupta.
As per the official directive, the commission must submit its report within a month.
The investigation will focus on identifying the causes and circumstances leading to the incident while recommending measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
During the inspection, the commission gathered detailed information from officials regarding the circumstances of the stampede and the geographical layout of the area.
Justice Kumar noted that while the incident was an unfortunate accident, efforts are underway to understand its causes systematically. He added that the site inspection has been completed but affirmed that the team will revisit the location if necessary.
Retired IAS officer DK Singh and retired IPS officer VK Gupta stressed the need to expedite the investigation.
Justice Kumar acknowledged the short one-month timeframe but assured that officials would prioritize and swiftly complete the inquiry. He also emphasized that the investigation process would not interfere with the ongoing Maha Kumbh events.
The panel also plans to visit hospitals and speak with the injured. Justice Kumar stated that insights from victims would provide crucial perspectives for the inquiry.
Rather than focusing on a single factor, all possible causes will thoroughly examined.
Notably, the commission members had already begun their work on Thursday at their office in Janpath, Lucknow.
Justice Kumar mentioned that given the urgency of the matter, they assumed charge within hours of the official announcement.
Also Read: Maha Kumbh: Saints Praise Yogi Adityanath’s Efforts In Ensuring Pilgrim Safety & Event Success
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