Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh), [India], January 31 : The President of the Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad, Mahant Ravindra Puri, on Friday spoke about the stampede that occured on January 29 at the ongoing Maha Kumbh. He said that many leaders tried to malign the image of Maha Kumbh and further said that those who oppose Sanatan should be investigated.
Speaking to the ANI, Puri said, "...We appealed to all to celebrate this grand Maha Kumbh, from the country and all over the world. It was not our fault but 'Jo Sanatan virodhi the unki nazar hamare mele ko lag gayi'."
"They spread misinformation--a few leftist YouTubers came and tried to dent the image of Maha Kumbh and our saints. Many leaders tried to malign the image of Maha Kumbh. I think it (stampede) might be their conspiracy. They must be investigated and all those who questioned Sanatan should be interrogated," he told ANI.
Earlier in the day, a three-member judicial commission was constituted to investigate the tragic stampede that occurred on the occasion of Mauni Amavasya and the incident that occurred on 29 January.
The commission members reached their office in Janpath, Lucknow, on Thursday and immediately took charge of the investigation.
Commission Chairman Justice (Retd.) Harsh Kumar said, "Since the investigation is a priority, we have taken charge within hours of the announcement."
He added, "Although we have a month to complete the probe, we will make every effort to conclude it as quickly as possible." Justice Kumar also confirmed that the commission would soon visit Prayagraj to assess the situation firsthand.
The stampede occurred during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual on Wednesday, resulting in the deaths of 30 people and leaving 60 others injured.