VK Saxena initially acknowledged the \”tragic loss of lives and injuries\” due to the \”disorder and stampede\” at the station. Within minutes, he altered the statement, removing any mention of deaths and softening the language to describe the incident as merely \”unfortunate\” Opposition parties accused Mr Saxena and the Centre of trying to downplay the disaster. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) called it an attempt to evade responsibility. The stampede broke out around 9:55 pm on Saturday night as thousands of passengers crowded platforms 12, 13, and 14, many attempting to board trains to Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh. Security personnel struggled to control the surge as passengers tripped and fell, leading to a deadly crush. The the deaths of 18 people, including 11 women and four children – two of whom were under the age of 10. Fifteen others sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment at Lok Nayai Prakash Hospital. Delhi Police have launched an official investigation into the incident and are reviewing CCTV footage from the station and analysing public announcements made at the time.
