The Allahabad High Court has issued a significant directive to authorities, ordering them to decide a compensation claim within 30 days for the husband of a woman who tragically lost her life in the Maha Kumbh stampede. This ruling comes after the court firmly rejected the Uttar Pradesh government's plea to delay the decision until the final report from an inquiry commission is submitted.
Court's Stern Warning to Authorities
The division bench, comprising Justices Ajit Kumar and Swarupama Chaturvedi, delivered this order with a clear warning. They emphasized that failure to comply with the 30-day deadline would force the court to take a serious view of the matter. This stern stance underscores the judiciary's commitment to ensuring timely justice for victims and their families.
Background of the Tragic Incident
The order stems from a writ petition filed by Uday Pratap Singh, who claimed that his wife suffered critical chest injuries during the stampede and died within 30 days of the incident. The tragic event occurred during the Mauni Amavasya bath on January 29, 2025, at the Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj.
In the pre-dawn hours, a sudden surge allegedly led by young men tore through the crowd, trampling sleeping pilgrims near the ghat. This devastating incident resulted in the deaths of thirty people, with reports indicating that most of the victims were women. The stampede has raised serious questions about crowd management and safety protocols during large-scale religious gatherings.
Specific Directives from the High Court
The court has directed the Kumbh Mela authority and the inquiry commission to finalize the compensation claim within 30 days of its January 8 order. Additionally, the bench has asked Additional Advocate General Anoop Trivedi to file a compliance affidavit by February 18, 2025. This move aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the process.
State Government's Argument Rejected
The Uttar Pradesh government had argued that the inquiry timeline was extended in public interest, as dependents of the victims were approaching the authorities late. However, the court found this reasoning insufficient and prioritized the immediate need for compensation for the affected families. This decision highlights the judiciary's role in balancing administrative procedures with humanitarian concerns.
The Allahabad High Court's intervention in this matter is a crucial step towards providing relief to the victims' families. By setting a strict deadline, the court aims to prevent unnecessary delays and ensure that justice is served promptly. This case also serves as a reminder of the importance of robust safety measures during mass gatherings to prevent such tragedies in the future.
