Mamata questions Mahakumbh preparations, urges Yogi Govt to provide compensation for stampede victims

The West Bengal Prime Minister, Mamata Banerjee, was involved in a political and religious controversy after his comments on Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh. Banerje had previously referred to the event as the “Mrityu Kumbh” (Kumbh of Death), criticizing the government of Uttar Pradesh for alleged poor management, particularly following the tragic stampede that gained the lives of at least 30 people in Prayagraj.

However, CM Banerjee, today clarified his position, emphasizing that his comments were not aimed at pilgrims, but for the lack of adequate planning and preparation for the event.

“Respect for Maha Kumbh and Holy Ganga,” Banerjee said, “but I am worried about the system and the preparations there. If there is no proper planning, people will suffer.” She also emphasized that the system of taking a sacred sauce (Punya Snan) is an annual tradition and is not limited to Maha Kumbh, which occurs once every 12 years. Banerje called al Yogi Adityanath-We gave the government of Uttar Pradesh to compensate for the families of which they died in the stampede.

Mamata’s comments were made in the Western Bengal Assembly, where he criticized both the central government and the UTTAR PRADESH administration led by BJP for its handling of the Maha Kumbh Mela. He pointed out the disparity between the facilities for the rich and VIP attendees, who could pay luxurious camps at a price as high as RS 1 Lakh, while the poor were with inappropriate arrangements. She criticized the lack of planning, particularly for the safety of the masses that attended the event.

His comments, however, caused a fierce reaction from the religious community. Many Hindu and seer saints accused Banerje of not respecting the spiritual meaning of Kumbh Mela, which is one of the world’s greatest religious meetings. Shri Mahant Jamuna Puri, National Secretary of Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani, described his comments as “highly inappropriate” for someone who occupies a responsible constitutional position. He stressed that Maha Kumbh was not only an event but an “Amrit Parva” (nectar festival) with immense spiritual and cultural meaning.

Acharya Mahamondaleshwar Swami Arun Giri by Panch Dashnam Aavahan Akhara accused Banerje of converting Western Bengala into a hostile place to Sanatan Dharma, stating that the CM of Western Bengal should focus on his state instead of criticizing Uttar Pradesh. Other religious leaders, such as Mahant Rajendra Das, president of Nirmohi Ani Akhara, condemned their statements, called them an attack against Sanatan Dharma and demanded a public apology.

In response, Mamata Banerje defended his position, reiterating that his criticism was aimed at the poor management of the event and the lack of proper planning. He also requested more security measures and adequate arrangements to protect devotees who attend such great religious meetings. He also asked for peace, urging politicians to refrain from making divisive comments on religious matters.

As the controversy continues to develop, Maha Kumbh remains a deeply sensitive issue for millions of Hindus worldwide, and Banerjee’s comments have added fuel to a political and religious debate already heated.