A stampede broke out at the Maha Kumbh on Wednesday ahead of the sacred Amrit Snan during Mauni Amavasya, where an estimated 10 crore devotees were expected to take part. The incident occurred in the Sangam Nose area around 1:00 AM after barriers collapsed, creating chaos among the pilgrims.

Emergency services responded swiftly, with ambulances rushing the injured to the central hospital inside the Mela grounds. Officials confirmed that several people were brought dead to the hospital.

Special Executive Officer Akanksha Rana addressed the situation, stating, “A stampede-like situation arose on the Sangam routes after some barriers broke. Some people have been injured and are receiving treatment. However, it is not a serious situation.”

Following the incident, the second Amrit Snan was temporarily put on hold. President of the Akhil Bhartiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP), Mahant Ravindra Puri, revealed that authorities advised them to delay the ritual. “The administration has requested us not to proceed with the Amrit Snan. Though the seers and Naga Sadhus were prepared, we have decided to stay back for now and will decide on the next course of action soon,” he told TOI.

Later, the ABAP announced the cancellation of the Amrit Snan, citing overwhelming crowds and the unfortunate incident at Sangam. Mahant Puri confirmed that all akharas had unanimously agreed not to proceed with the ritual. “We will now take the third Amrit Snan on February 3. As for the Mauni Amavasya Snan, we have decided to cancel it,” he added.

The Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya is the most significant ritual of the Maha Kumbh, particularly this year due to the rare Triveni Yog, an astronomical event occurring after 144 years, enhancing the occasion’s spiritual significance.