Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow on Sunday over the tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station, which claimed multiple lives. He conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that authorities were providing assistance to those impacted by the incident.

Sources reported that at least 18 people, including nine women, five children, and four men, lost their lives. The stampede occurred around 10 pm on platforms 13 and 14, as thousands of Maha Kumbh pilgrims gathered to board trains, causing panic among passengers.

Taking to social media platform X, Modi wrote, "Distressed by the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. My thoughts are with all those who have lost their loved ones. I pray for the swift recovery of the injured. Authorities are extending support to those affected."

Visuals from the railway station depicted large crowds awaiting trains to Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The overwhelming rush of devotees eventually led to chaos and a fatal stampede.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed grief over the incident, saying, "Heartbreaking news from New Delhi Railway Station. I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives in the stampede. My condolences to the bereaved families, and I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured."

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena stated that he had instructed officials to provide all necessary aid to those in need.

"This is a tragic and unfortunate event involving loss of lives and injuries due to the stampede at New Delhi Railway Station. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. I have directed the Chief Secretary and Police Commissioner to manage the situation and ensure relief measures are in place," Saxena wrote on X.

He further mentioned that the Chief Secretary had been asked to implement Disaster Management Authority protocols and deploy relief teams. Hospitals were placed on alert, and senior officials were directed to oversee the situation at the station.

Caretaker Chief Minister of Delhi, Atishi, raised concerns over the security arrangements at the railway station and urged the railway authorities to prioritize passenger safety.

"This incident involving devotees traveling for Maha Kumbh is deeply saddening. The central and Uttar Pradesh governments seem indifferent to public safety. There is a lack of proper arrangements in Prayagraj and no adequate traffic management for pilgrims arriving from different states. I appeal to the Railway Department to promptly assist the affected people," Atishi posted on X in Hindi.

The Congress party also criticized the absence of additional train services despite the anticipated surge in passengers due to Maha Kumbh. The party extended condolences and called for accountability.

Additionally, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) leader Tejashwi Yadav blamed the central government, asserting that the "double-engine government" had failed to ensure public safety.