Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister, Keshav Prasad Maurya, has lashed out at Samajwadi Party (SP) chief, Akhilesh Yadav, for making political comments regarding the tragic stampede during the Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj. Maurya accused Yadav of engaging in “cheap politics” over the incident, which resulted in 30 deaths and 60 injuries.
Maurya’s Remarks on Yadav’s Comments
- Speaking to media, Maurya expressed that while everyone is saddened by the stampede tragedy, Akhilesh Yadav’s ongoing political commentary about the event was inappropriate.
- Maurya added, “His mental balance has deteriorated due to being ousted from power,” and that such remarks were damaging to the spirit of the Maha Kumbh.
Akhilesh Yadav’s Criticism of the Government
- Akhilesh Yadav had raised concerns over the Uttar Pradesh government’s handling of the incident, calling for immediate action and even Army intervention. He also claimed that the official death toll was inaccurate, and criticized the government for its failure to ensure the safety of devotees during the religious event.
- Yadav remarked, “For us, the data of people who died in the stampede in Maha Kumbh is more important than the budget data.”
- He also questioned the government’s preparedness for the festival, saying, “This government says they are a party of Hindus, but they are not able to make arrangements for this biggest festival of Hindus.”
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Responds
- Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath responded to Yadav’s comments by accusing him of consistently opposing the Maha Kumbh. Adityanath pointed out that in recent months, all of Yadav’s posts on social media had been against the Maha Kumbh and other important Hindu events, including the Ram Lalla installation in Ayodhya.
- Adityanath also emphasized the significance of the Maha Kumbh as a major spiritual and cultural event.
Government Response and Investigation
- In response to the stampede, a three-member judicial commission has been formed to investigate the causes of the tragedy and is expected to submit its report within a month.
- Authorities in Prayagraj have assured that enhanced safety arrangements will be made for the Third Shahi Snan on Basant Panchami (February 3) to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Looking Ahead
- While the incident has sparked political debate, the Uttar Pradesh government remains focused on ensuring the safety and security of devotees during the remaining days of the Maha Kumbh 2025, which is expected to continue until February 26.