Amid calls for resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw over the stampede that occurred at New Delhi Railway Station, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar defended him and stated that the Rail Ministry is probing if there was any conspiracy or fake news behind the incident. A two-member committee has been formed by the Indian Railways to inquire into the tragedy and secure all CCTV footage of the station. The government has announced ex-gratia for the victims and the opposition has demanded accountability for the mishap.
Amidst increasing calls for the resignation of Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw following the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar has come to his defense. He asserted that the Railway Ministry is actively investigating the incident to determine if any conspiracy or fake news played a role.
Background
On Thursday, August 18, 2022, a stampede erupted at New Delhi Railway Station during a festive rush. The incident resulted in the death of 23 people and injuries to over 100. The cause of the stampede is still under investigation.
Government Response
Immediately after the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences to the victims' families and announced ex-gratia compensation. The government has formed a two-member committee, comprising a senior railway official and a representative from the Delhi Police, to investigate the tragedy. The committee has been tasked with securing all CCTV footage from the station and determining the cause of the stampede.
Opposition's Demand
Opposition parties have criticized the government's handling of the situation and demanded accountability for the mishap. They have called for the resignation of Railway Minister Vaishnaw, alleging negligence and a lack of crowd management.
Minister's Defense
Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar has strongly defended Vaishnaw, stating that the Rail Ministry is taking the incident seriously and is investigating all aspects. He emphasized that the ministry will not hesitate to take action against anyone found responsible.
FAQs
1. What caused the stampede at Delhi Railway Station?
The exact cause is still under investigation.
2. How many people were killed and injured in the stampede?
23 people were killed and over 100 injured.
3. What is the government doing to investigate the incident?
A two-member committee has been formed to investigate the tragedy and secure all CCTV footage.
4. Has anyone been held responsible for the stampede?
The investigation is ongoing, and no one has been held responsible at this time.
5. What measures are being taken to prevent similar incidents in the future?
The Railway Ministry is reviewing safety and crowd management measures at all major stations.
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