A political storm erupted on Tuesday after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee referred to the Mahakumbh as “Mrityu Kumbh”, criticizing the event’s management following stampede incidents in Prayagraj (January 29) and at the New Delhi Railway Station (February 15).
While Banerjee emphasized her respect for the Maha Kumbh and holy Ganga Maa, she lambasted organizers over poor planning and disparities in arrangements:
🗣️ “This is ‘Mrityu Kumbh’… What planning did you make? For the rich, there are camps costing ₹1 lakh, while the poor are left with no arrangements.”
Her remarks prompted immediate backlash from BJP leaders and Hindu groups:
🔴 BJP Leader KK Sharma:
🗣️ “Such statements hurt the faith of crores of Hindus. The BJP strongly condemns this. People will never accept this insult to their faith.”
🔴 Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari:
🗣️ “Raise your voice against this attack on Hinduism. The CM’s words are an insult to the sanctity of the Maha Kumbh.”
🔔 Key Points:
- Mamata Banerjee criticized arrangements at the Maha Kumbh, highlighting stampedes and class disparities.
- BJP leaders called her remarks an insult to Hinduism, demanding an apology.
- Protests erupted in the West Bengal Assembly, with BJP MLAs raising slogans.
- Saint communities and Hindu organizations have been urged to register strong protests.
The Maha Kumbh, expected to attract millions of devotees, has now become a flashpoint in national politics, as leaders debate faith, safety, and event management.