Amritsar, February 15
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday expressed grief over the loss of lives in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. He blamed the Ministry of Railways and said that the accident took place due to their negligence.
In a post on X CM Mann said, "Received the sad news of the death of passengers during the stampede last night at the New Delhi railway station. We pray to God for the eternal peace of the passengers who lost their lives in the tragic incident and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. This accident is the result of the negligence of the Ministry of Railways. It is a pity that no care is being taken for the precious lives of people in the capital of the country."
The Indian Railways has announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh for kin of deceased, Rs 2.5 lakh for seriously injured and Rs 1 lakh for those who suffered minor injuries.
The incident happened around 10 pm when thousands of devotees were heading to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh 2025 festival, causing severe overcrowding at the station.
According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Railway, KPS Malhotra, the incident occurred when a large number of passengers gathered on platform no. 14, where the Prayagraj Express was stationed. Additionally, delays in the departures of the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani led to further congestion at platforms 12, 13, and 14.
President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep anguish over the loss of lives. She extended her heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured.
"Deeply anguished to know about the loss of lives in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured," President Murmu posted on X.
- ANI