New Delhi, February 3, 2025 – Congress President and Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge triggered a heated debate in the Rajya Sabha on Monday after claiming that “thousands” died in the January 29 Maha Kumbh stampede. The statement led to strong protests from the ruling party, prompting Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar to urge him to retract it.
Key Points:
- Kharge’s Statement:
- While paying tributes to the victims, he said: “The thousands who died in Kumbh.”
- He later clarified that this was his “estimate” and asked the government to provide the “correct figures.”
- He added, “I will apologize if I am wrong.”
- Government’s Response:
- Official figures from the Uttar Pradesh Government report 30 deaths and 60 injuries during the Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya (January 29).
- Chairman Dhankhar said Kharge’s claim was “numbing” and had global implications.
- Kharge’s Stand:
- He refused to withdraw his remark unless the government disclosed actual numbers.
- He insisted he was not blaming anyone but seeking transparency.
The incident has escalated political tensions, with the opposition questioning the government’s handling of the tragedy, while the ruling party accuses Kharge of exaggeration.