A police officer was suspended on Thursday after a viral
video allegedly showed him mixing ash into food at a Bhandara (community
feast) during the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
According to DCP (Ganga Nagar) Kuldeep Singh Gunawat, action
was taken against Soraon SHO Brijesh Kumar Tiwari after the video circulated
widely on social media. The footage reportedly shows an officer adding ash to
food being prepared over a stove.
A concerned user shared the video on X (formerly Twitter),
tagging the DCP Ganga Nagar’s official account and demanding strict action
against the officer. In response, the department confirmed that the SHO had
been suspended and that further disciplinary proceedings were in progress.
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav also shared the
video, criticizing the act and urging the public to remain vigilant. He stated,
"It is unfortunate that the selfless efforts of those providing food
and water to pilgrims at Maha Kumbh are being hindered due to political
animosity. The public must take note!"
Maha Kumbh Stampede:
Meanwhile, a tragic stampede occurred at the Sangam area
during the Mauni Amavasya Amrit Snan on Wednesday, leaving at least 30
dead, 60 injured, and several missing.
Following the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj
Kumar Singh and Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar visited Swaroop
Rani Nehru Hospital to meet the injured devotees. They personally checked on
the victims, ensuring they were receiving adequate medical attention and
instructing doctors to provide the necessary care without any delays.
With millions of pilgrims attending Maha Kumbh, various
individuals, groups, and organizations have set up community kitchens to offer
free or subsidized meals to devotees. The authorities continue to monitor the
situation closely to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees.