Stampedes at religious events in India have caused hundreds of deaths over the years, highlighting safety concerns.

At least 15 people, mostly women and children, died and 15 were injured in a stampede at New Delhi's main railway station, the chief minister of India's capital territory told reporters early on Sunday.

Many of the victims were Hindu pilgrims who were traveling to the Maha Kumbh festival in Prayagraj in northern India, officials said.