Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said some devotees were critically injured when they tried to break a barricade at the Sangam Nose on the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday. "Administration and police personnel immediately sent them to the hospital," he said.
He, however, did not mention if there were any deaths in the incident. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called four times since morning. Union Home Minister Amit Shah and [BJP president] JP Nadda also called to take stock of the situation," he said.
"Around 10 crore devotees are at the Maha Kumbh. This has increased pressure. Even yesterday [January 28], 5.5 crore devotees took the holy dip at Sangam Nose. The pressure is more on the Sangam Nose, Akhada Marg and Nag Vasuki Marg," he said.
He said the injured are being cared for properly at state-run hospitals in Prayagraj.
Akhadas To Take Dip Only After Devotees
Yogi Adityanath said that he spoke to the heads of the akhadas, who "graciously agreed" to take the holy dip in Sangam on Mauni Amavasya only after the devotees. "This is an event for everyone. I appeal to people to take the holy dips at the nearest ghats only. They don't have to come to Sangam. Mother Ganga will bless everyone on Mauni Amavasya," CM Yogi said.
Earlier, the akhadas had said that they would not take the holy bath in Ganga on Mauni Amavasya in the wake of the accident. Now, they plan to arrive at Sangam Nose around 11 AM. For this, more security forces are being brought to the site.
He also said people must stay away from rumours and refrain from spreading them. He also urged people to adhere to the directions issued by the administration and avoid crowds..