Opposition chants 'Modi-Yogi down down' in Parliament amid uproar over Maha Kumbh stampede

Delhi: Opposition MPs disrupted Parliament over the Maha Kumbh stampede tragedy, demanding accountability from the Modi government as Speaker Om Birla urged order.

Parliament

Parliament (file)

Delhi: The Lok Sabha witnessed chaotic scenes on Monday as Opposition MPs vociferously protested against the tragic stampede at the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The disaster, which claimed at least 30 lives and left 60 injured, ignited a fierce political debate, with Opposition members raising slogans against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Chanting slogans such as "Modi-Yogi Down Down" and "Modi-Yogi Shame Shame," Opposition leaders disrupted proceedings during the crucial Question Hour, demanding an immediate discussion on the catastrophe.

Lok Sabha Speaker Urges Order Amid Chaos

Despite repeated attempts to restore order, Speaker Om Birla expressed his displeasure at the disruptions. Addressing the protesting MPs, Birla questioned whether they were sent by voters to raise pertinent issues or merely to create a ruckus. “I have said before that the Question Hour should never be disrupted. It is a collective responsibility to ensure its smooth functioning. Issues can be raised after 12 PM during the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address. If you are here just to shout slogans and bang tables, I have nothing more to say,” Om Birla stated firmly. The Speaker urged members to respect parliamentary traditions and maintain decorum while engaging in meaningful discussions. However, the Opposition remained adamant, staging a brief walkout in protest.

Opposition Demands Government’s Response

The united Opposition continued to press for an immediate discussion on the Maha Kumbh stampede, insisting that the government acknowledge the tragedy and release the names of the deceased. "The Opposition in Lok Sabha demands a discussion on the Maha Kumbh tragedy and asks the government to respond. Since this was not allowed, we continue to raise our voices," said Congress leader Manickam Tagore. In the Rajya Sabha, Opposition MPs staged a brief walkout, further intensifying pressure on the government. The demand for transparency regarding the list of casualties and accountability for the mishap remains at the forefront of the political battle.

Maha Kumbh Stampede: What Happened?

The devastating stampede occurred during the sacred Shahi Snan ritual on Mouni Amavasya, a day considered highly auspicious for taking a holy dip. The overwhelming crowd led to a chaotic situation, resulting in multiple casualties and injuries. Following the tragedy, opposition leaders criticized the government’s handling of the event, questioning the adequacy of crowd control measures. The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety arrangements at one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.

Judicial Inquiry Commission Formed

In response to mounting criticism, a three-member judicial commission has been established to investigate the circumstances leading to the stampede. The commission has been tasked with identifying lapses in crowd management and suggesting measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The panel has been given one month to submit its findings, which will play a crucial role in determining accountability and improving safety protocols for upcoming events at the Maha Kumbh Mela. With political tensions escalating, the tragedy has not only exposed administrative shortcomings but also set the stage for an intense political showdown in Parliament.

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