Daijiworld Media Network - Belagavi/Prayagraj
Belagavi/Prayagraj, Jan 29: In a tragic incident at the Maha Kumbh Mela, four individuals from Belagavi, including a mother-daughter duo, lost their lives in a stampede.
The deceased have been identified as Jyoti Hattarvat (50), her daughter Megha Hattarvat (25), Arun Koparde, and Mahadevi Hanumant Bavanur.
The victims were part of a 13-member group from Belagavi that had traveled to the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj three days ago through Sai Rath Travel Agency. Following the stampede, the four were admitted to a private hospital in Prayagraj but succumbed to their injuries despite medical treatment.
Family members in Belagavi had been anxious since Wednesday morning as they were unable to contact Jyoti and Megha. Despite repeated attempts, their phones went unanswered, raising concerns. The tragic news of their deaths was later confirmed by Chidambar, a fellow traveler who was with them during the incident.
Deepak Hattarvat, Megha’s father, broke down in tears while speaking to the media. He revealed that the group had left Belagavi on January 26 to participate in the Maha Kumbh Mela.
In addition to the four fatalities, several others from Belagavi were injured in the stampede. Kanchan Koparde, Arun’s wife, sustained serious injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital. The group had initially traveled with 30 people, but only 13 were present at the site of the stampede.
Meanwhile, the Belagavi district commissioner Mohammad Roshan while confirming the reports said that the sudden loss of their lives has caused immense grief to their families and they are now seeking the support of the district administration to bring back the mortal remains of their loved ones for the last rites to be performed in their native places.
He said that Shruthi N S, additional superintendent of police, Belagavi and Harsha Shetty, special deputy commissioner, Belagavi have been appointed as nodal officers for the repatriation of mortal remains of four residents of Belagavi district from Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh immediately.
The mortal remains of the deceased including three women will be airlifted from Varanasi to Belagavi, he stated.
Reacting to the development, Karnataka Leader of the Opposition in Assembly, R Ashoka said that the news of the tragic stampede has been deeply saddening.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to the families who have lost their loved ones. I urge the state government to coordinate with the local administration there to facilitate the transportation of the deceased back to Karnataka and ensure proper medical treatment for the injured,” he stated.
He also told Kannadigas to follow the instructions issued from time to time by the local administration, police personnel, and event organisers.
“Do not pay attention to rumours or unverified information. Stay close to your group of friends or family members while travelling. If you have young children or elderly companions with you, ensure they receive special attention and care,” Ashoka appealed.
He said that the Uttar Pradesh government and local administration have put in place all necessary arrangements to allow every devotee to perform the sacred bath.
“Therefore, there is no need for haste or panic. Take part in the holy ritual calmly and return home safely,” Ashoka stated.
(With inputs from IANS)