Mallikarjun Kharge’s tribute to ‘thousands’ dead in Maha Kumbh stampede sparks uproar in Parliament

Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge on Monday paid tributes to “thousands” who died in the stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj on January 29, triggering an uproar in the Rajya Sabha.

At least 30 persons were killed and 60 others were injured at the Maha Kumbh pilgrimage site. However, several media reports have suggested that the actual toll could be significantly higher.

On Monday, following objections from the treasury benches, Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar urged Kharge to retract the remark.

“The LoP [Leader of Opposition] has indicated a scenario using figures to the extent of thousands,” Dhankhar said. “I appeal to him, in this House, whatever is spoken, carries great weight. You have spoken something which has numbed everyone.”

Dhankhar added: “A message that goes from here, even if it is contradicted, goes to the whole world. Can you go to that extent? I would appeal to you as one of the seniormost leaders of this country, if you put a figure in thousands, I can only appeal to your conscience.”

The leader of the Opposition in the Upper House defended his remark, saying that the number was his estimate and that if he was incorrect, the government “should tell what is the truth”. Kharge said he was ready to be corrected.

“I did not say…

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