'There's something more important than budget...: Akhilesh Yadav | WATCH

New Delhi: In a strong statement regarding the recent stampede at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav called for the army to be deployed to ensure the safety of the public.

Speaking about the ongoing Budget Session on Saturday, Yadav argued that the government's priorities should shift from the Union Budget to the immediate humanitarian crisis at the Maha Kumbh. "There is something more important than the Budget at the moment—people at the Maha Kumbh are still searching for their relatives," he said, emphasizing that the government has failed to provide vital details about the deceased and missing.

"The CM has been there many times, the Union Home Minister has gone there, the Vice President is going today and the Prime Minister will also go there - in a Maha Kumbh where many people died and the govt has failed to provide the numbers of deceased and those who are missing... Hindus have lost their lives - the govt must wake up - I said earlier as well to call the Army there". He added.

Yadav's remarks followed a tragic incident on Mauni Amavasya, when a stampede during the Amrit Snan at the Sangam claimed multiple lives and left many others injured. The Maha Kumbh, which draws millions of devotees from across the globe, has faced severe logistical challenges. As the festival progresses, Yadav called on the government to take swift action and deploy the army to manage the crowd and ensure the safety of those participating in the sacred event.

"Saints have denied having the Shahi Snan for the first time due to the chaos," Yadav added, criticizing the government's lack of accountability in addressing the disaster. His comments come as the Prime Minister has spoken with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to review the situation and offer immediate assistance.