Three-member Judicial Commission arrives in Prayagraj, intensive investigation to be conducted based on CCTV footage and topography

Mahakumbh Nagar : The three-member judicial commission, formed to investigate the incident during the Mauni Amavasya snan at Maha Kumbh, has expedited its inquiry. The commission, led by retired Justice Harsh Kumar, held its first meeting with officials in Prayagraj on Friday. Following the meeting, the panel conducted on-site inspection near Sangam Nose, where the incident took place.

Justice Harsh Kumar stated that the Commission is meticulously studying the topography and circumstances of the site. Additionally, CCTV footage and other crucial evidence will be thoroughly analyzed to determine the exact causes of the tragedy.

Notably, the stampede, which occurred 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 established a three-member commission to investigate the matter.

The commission, led by retired Allahabad High Court Justice Harsh Kumar, also includes retired IAS officer D.K. Singh and retired IPS officer V.K. Gupta. As per the official directive, the panel has been tasked with submitting its report within a month. The investigation will focus on identifying the causes and circumstances leading to the stampede while also recommending measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

The Commission has gathered detailed information from officials about the circumstances of the stampede and the geographical layout of the area. Justice Harsh Kumar stated that while the incident was an unexpected accident, efforts are being made to understand its causes systematically. He added that the site inspection has been completed, but if needed, the team will revisit the location.

Commission members, retired IAS officer D.K. Singh and retired IPS officer V.K. Gupta, emphasized the need to speed up the investigation. Justice Kumar acknowledged that the Commission has only one month to complete its report but assured that the investigation will be prioritized and completed quickly. He also emphasized that the inquiry process will not disrupt the ongoing Mahakumbh events. The Commission will carefully analyze all facts before reaching a solid conclusion.

Additionally, the panel plans to visit hospitals and speak with the injured. Justice Kumar mentioned that insights from the victims will help steer the investigation in the right direction. Instead of focusing on a single factor, all possible causes will be considered.

Notably, the Commission members had already begun their work on Thursday at their office in Janpath, Lucknow. Justice Kumar had earlier stated that due to the urgency of the matter, they assumed charge within hours of the official announcement.