During a recent gathering at the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, a tragic stampede occurred resulting in 30 deaths and over 60 injuries as attendees surged past barriers for a holy dip at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers. Despite the calamity, BJP MP and actor Hema Malini downplayed the severity of the incident, describing it as “not a very big incident” and suggesting that media reports were exaggerating the tragedy.

Her comments were made shortly after she herself participated in the event, benefiting from VIP treatment and security that critics argue was at the expense of general safety measures for the public. This stance has led to a sharp rebuke from Tariq Anwar, a Congress MP, who criticized Malini for her lack of empathy and awareness of the chaos experienced by ordinary attendees.

Opposition parties, particularly the Samajwadi Party led by former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, have been vocal in their condemnation of the state government’s handling of the event and the subsequent response to the tragedy. They demand accountability and transparency regarding the incident details, which they claim are being obscured by the state authorities.

The controversy extends to accusations from SP MP Jaya Bachchan, who alleged that bodies of the deceased were disposed of in the Ganges, further polluting the river. This claim, while denied by the BJP, has added fuel to the political fire surrounding the event, with demands for a verified list of casualties and an impartial investigation into the disaster management at the Kumbh Mela.

As the debate rages on, the BJP defends its administration of the event, claiming extensive funds were allocated for water management and safety measures. However, the public outcry and political uproar continue to grow as the nation grapples with the repercussions of the tragedy and the insensitive remarks made by a prominent political figure.

On the eve of the Delhi Assembly elections, the Election Commission (EC) has issued a firm rebuttal to accusations of bias and undue influence, primarily leveled by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). The Commission emphasized its dedication to neutrality and the rigorous adherence to legal protocols, despite claims of political pressure.

In a recent statement published on the social media platform X, the EC addressed what it described as “repeated pressure tactics” used by various political parties and candidates, including accusations of attempting to malign the Commission’s authority. The statement highlighted the EC’s commitment to restraint and its efforts to manage criticisms with “sagacity and stoicism.”

This response follows a series of pointed critiques from prominent AAP leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and party chief Arvind Kejriwal. The criticism intensified after allegations surfaced regarding the family of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Ramesh Bidhuri violating the Model Code of Conduct in Delhi’s Kalkaji area, with Atishi accusing the EC of inaction.

Atishi’s posts on X detailed how she reported the misconduct to both the Delhi Police and the EC, only to find herself charged instead. Furthermore, Kejriwal has also been vocal, suggesting that the EC and Delhi Police are biased towards the BJP, alleging that they turn a blind eye to corrupt practices such as distributing liquor and money for votes.

In a particularly harsh critique, Kejriwal questioned the future prospects of the Chief Election Commissioner, Rajiv Kumar, insinuating potential post-retirement offers from the BJP that could compromise the electoral process.

The EC, in its defense, asserted that all complaints and issues raised ahead of the polls were thoroughly investigated by over 150,000 officials working within a robust legal framework to ensure fairness and transparency.

As Delhi’s voters prepare to cast their ballots for the 70 assembly seats, the EC’s assurances aim to reinforce trust in the electoral process amidst swirling allegations of misconduct and bias. The results of the election, which will determine if AAP secures a third consecutive term, are eagerly awaited.

With the Delhi Assembly elections just a day away, Chief Minister Atishi has been implicated in a legal matter concerning disobedience, filed at the Govindpuri police station. According to the charges, Atishi, representing the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) from the Kalkaji constituency, was accused of breaching the election code of conduct as stipulated by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, specifically under Section 223.

Delhi Police detailed on the social platform X that Atishi, alongside approximately 50 to 70 people and 10 vehicles, congregated at Fateh Singh Marg. When instructed to clear the area in line with electoral guidelines, they allegedly did not comply.

The initiation of this case followed an incident where a supporter of Atishi reportedly assaulted a police officer who was videotaping the Chief Minister’s motorcade.

Responding vigorously to the charges, Atishi criticized the Election Commission and the police for what she perceives as selective enforcement of the rules, particularly highlighting that Ramesh Bidhuri’s family—her BJP opponent—were also violating the election guidelines without facing repercussions.

Echoing Atishi’s frustrations, Arvind Kejriwal, the national convener of AAP, accused the Delhi Police and the Election Commission of adopting a stance that seemed to support the BJP’s alleged misdemeanors, including distributing liquor and money. He claimed that those attempting to intervene are being wrongfully targeted.

Police sources suggested that Atishi was actively campaigning in the Govindpuri area even after the official canvassing period had concluded and reportedly engaged in a dispute with the executive magistrate in charge of the flying squad, a team tasked with overseeing and enforcing poll conduct regulations.