A devastating crush at the Kumbh Mela festival in northern India has resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people and injuries to over 60 others. The incident occurred on Wednesday during the festival's most significant bathing day, when thousands of devotees gathered at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes as pilgrims were trampled by the surging crowd, with many losing sight of their loved ones in the chaos.

The Kumbh Mela, which takes place every 12 years, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, attracting millions of devotees. Wednesday's bathing day was anticipated to draw up to 100 million participants, making it one of the most crowded days of the festival. Despite the tragedy, the festival continued, with many pilgrims still taking part in the sacred bathing ritual. However, this incident has raised concerns about crowd management and safety at the event.

Opposition leaders have criticized the government for its handling of the festival, accusing officials of mismanagement and prioritizing VIP movement over the safety of regular devotees. Some pilgrims also blamed the authorities for the disaster, questioning the absence of police presence at the site of the crush. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and grief, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi offering condolences to the families of the victims.

The Kumbh Mela festival is a significant event in the Hindu calendar, with devotees believing that bathing in the sacred waters will cleanse them of sins and help them attain salvation. Despite the tragedy, the festival is expected to continue until its conclusion on February 26. However, the incident has cast a shadow over the celebrations, highlighting the urgent need for improved crowd management and safety measures at large public gatherings.