At least 18 people, including 11 women and four children, lost their lives in a chaotic stampede at New Delhi railway station on Saturday night. The overcrowding was triggered by delays of two trains bound for the Maha Kumbh, leading to a sudden surge of passengers on platforms 14 and 15.
Officials confirmed the casualties at LNJP and Lady Hardinge hospitals. The Railways has ordered an inquiry and announced financial aid of ₹10 lakh for victims’ families. Security has been ramped up at the station, with special trains being arranged for stranded passengers.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief, while Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw assured the situation is under control. Authorities urged people to ignore stampede rumors, despite initial statements from Delhi LG VK Saxena and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh acknowledging a tragic loss of lives. The incident highlights growing concerns over crowd management at religious events.
