Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Blames Railways for New Delhi Stampede, Announces Compensation

Amritsar/New Delhi.

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Sunday expressed grief and outrage over the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, which resulted in multiple fatalities. He blamed the Ministry of Railways, citing negligence as the cause of the accident.

CM Mann’s Statement

Taking to social media platform X, CM Mann stated:
“Received the sad news of the death of passengers during the stampede last night at the New Delhi railway station. We pray to God for the eternal peace of the passengers who lost their lives in the tragic incident and wish for the speedy recovery of the injured. This accident is the result of the negligence of the Ministry of Railways. It is a pity that no care is being taken for the precious lives of people in the capital of the country.”

Railways Announces Compensation

In response to the incident, Indian Railways has announced compensation for the victims:

• ₹10 lakh for the kin of the deceased
• ₹2.5 lakh for the seriously injured
• ₹1 lakh for those with minor injuries

Incident Details

The stampede occurred around 10 PM on Saturday night, when thousands of devotees were rushing to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh 2025 festival. The crowding intensified due to delays in multiple trains, leading to severe congestion at the station.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) KPS Malhotra reported that the incident unfolded on platform no. 14, where the Prayagraj Express was stationed. Delays in the departures of the Swatantrata Senani Express and Bhubaneswar Rajdhani further worsened the situation on platforms 12, 13, and 14.

President Droupadi Murmu Expresses Condolences

President Droupadi Murmu expressed deep sorrow over the incident. In a post on X, she wrote:
“Deeply anguished to know about the loss of lives in a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”

As investigations continue, authorities are examining CCTV footage and other evidence to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the tragedy.