At least a dozen people are feared dead after a crush occurred at India's Kumbh Mela festival in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Eyewitnesses report scenes of chaos, with clothes, shoes, and backpacks scattered on the ground. Despite official predictions of up to 100 million attendees, the famous bathing ritual was suspended, but tens of thousands still tried to take part. The incident occurred early in the morning when pilgrims attempted to jump over police barricades at the sacred Sangam Nose. Opposition leaders have criticized the government for mismanagement and prioritizing VIPs.

An emergency signal from Air India's Mumbai-bound flight AI 2957 triggered a hijack alert on Monday night, causing security protocols to be activated. The flight, which had just taken off from New Delhi, transmitted the ‘squawk 7500’ code, indicating a hijack. The ATC immediately alerted Mumbai airport authorities, the Air Force, and security agencies. Despite the pilot’s clarification that it was a false alarm, the protocol continued. The plane landed safely at Mumbai, where authorities were ready to ensure security. An investigation is underway to determine whether it was a technical error or pilot miscommunication.

A stampede-like situation at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, left over 30 devotees injured, mostly women, during the Mauni Amavasya morning ritual. Barricades broke about a kilometre from the Sangam, causing panic and pushing some women to faint. Fearing casualties, Akharas decided to defer the Amrit Snan for the day. Despite the chaos, millions continued taking the holy dip. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are overseeing relief efforts. The Maha Kumbh, attracting around 40 crore pilgrims, is the world’s largest spiritual gathering.

At least 10 people were feared dead during a stampede at Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj as crowds gathered for the Mauni Amavasya holy dip. Eyewitnesses described being pushed and unable to exit the area safely. Vinay Kumar Yadav claimed, "There was no place for people to go out." Another witness from Bihar shared that his wife was among the victims. Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath attributed the tragedy to barricade breaches but assured the situation was under control. The ongoing Maha Kumbh expects 40 crore pilgrims by February 26, marking it as the world’s largest spiritual gathering.

After stampede-like scenes at Prayagraj's Mahakumbh on Mauni Amavasya, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath declared the situation "under control." The chaos, caused by devotees crossing barricades, left some injured. Despite the heavy rush of nearly 10 crore attendees, the 'Amrit Snan' continues. Adityanath emphasized the administration's efforts, with PM Modi and Union Ministers closely monitoring the situation. Advanced safety measures, including 2,700 AI-powered cameras and 1,000 police officers, were in place. Religious gatherings, like this, remain challenging for crowd control. Mauni Amavasya, a holy day for a purifying dip at Triveni Sangam, witnessed record attendance.

At least 10 people are feared dead and dozens injured after a stampede occurred at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj on January 29, 2025. Thousands had gathered for the second Shahi Snan during Mauni Amavasya when barriers broke, triggering the chaos. Authorities rushed ambulances, and several injured individuals were sent to a makeshift hospital. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath are monitoring the situation. Despite earlier cancellations, the Amrit Snan proceeded after the crowd thinned. Authorities urged devotees to avoid the Sangam and adhere to crowd control measures.

The ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, is set to witness 10 crore devotees performing the sacred Amrit Snan on Mauni Amavasya. The Indian Railways has deployed 60 additional trains, bringing the total to 190, for hassle-free pilgrim travel. Security measures include AI-powered CCTV cameras, drones, and 10,000 RPF personnel. The Triveni Sangam has already hosted 15 crore pilgrims over 17 days, with 3.5 crore attending on Makar Sankranti alone. The auspicious Amrit Snan, marked by saintly processions, symbolizes spiritual cleansing. Helicopters will shower flower petals to honor the event. Residents are urged to limit vehicular use for smoother pilgrim movement.

A tragic incident occurred during a Jain Nirvana festival in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, as a makeshift bamboo and wooden stage collapsed, leaving 5 dead and 40 injured. The accident happened during a laddoo ceremony attended by hundreds of devotees. District Magistrate Asmita Lal confirmed that 20 injured individuals have been discharged after first aid, while others continue treatment. Authorities, including senior police officials, swiftly responded to the scene. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed condolences and directed officials to ensure comprehensive medical care for the injured. The annual religious event has been conducted for nearly 30 years without previous incidents.

Ahead of Mauni Amavasya on January 29, the Uttar Pradesh Police issued a traffic advisory for Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj. Vehicles are restricted in the Mahakumbh zone to ensure safety amid an expected rush of 8-9 crore devotees. Parking arrangements include designated spots near landmarks like Alopi Devi Temple and CMP Degree College. Pontoon bridges will have one-way traffic or be closed for safety. The area has been declared a "no-VIP zone." The police aim to provide a smooth and safe experience for attendees at this world-renowned religious gathering, where over 14.76 crore pilgrims have already participated.

Actor Saif Ali Khan was stabbed six times during a failed burglary at his Bandra home on January 16. Police arrested Bangladeshi national Sariful Islam, who entered India illegally and used a stolen Aadhaar card to get a SIM card. The SIM was traced to Khukumoni Sheikh from Bengal, who claimed her phone was stolen. Islam, using the alias Bijoy Das, worked in Mumbai without documents. Kareena Kapoor Khan and a nurse witnessed the attack. Saif underwent emergency surgery and was discharged on January 21. Islam's father claims his son is being framed.