The political atmosphere heated up after Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav raised questions over the Yogi government holding a cabinet meeting at the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj and participating in a ceremonial dip in the Ganga. Responding to the criticism, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya fired back, suggesting that Akhilesh could also take a holy dip with his followers if he so wished.
Maurya remarked, “Who is stopping Akhilesh Yadav from taking a dip in the Ganga? We would be happy if he brings his people and takes the plunge. It seems Akhilesh has developed a mental ailment that prevents him from appreciating the grand arrangements at the Kumbh. He should seek treatment for this.”
Yogi Cabinet Meets at the Kumbh, Stirs Controversy
The controversy arose after Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath convened a cabinet meeting at the Mahakumbh 2025 in Prayagraj, followed by a Ganga dip alongside his ministers. The meeting, held on the banks of the Sangam, approved 17 proposals, showcasing the government’s intent to connect governance with cultural and spiritual heritage. However, this decision did not sit well with Akhilesh Yadav, who criticized the move as a political stunt.
Reacting strongly, the SP leader commented, “The Kumbh and Prayagraj are not places for political programs or decision-making. Holding a cabinet meeting here is simply a means to send out a political message. The Mahakumbh is a sacred event, not a platform for politics.”
The Samajwadi Party even shared Akhilesh’s statement on Twitter, emphasizing that the BJP was politicizing a spiritual event. Their post read, “Mahakumbh is not a venue for politics. This act of holding a cabinet meeting at the Kumbh reflects the BJP’s desperation to use every possible platform for political gains.”
Akhilesh Targets Yogi’s Ganga Dip
Akhilesh Yadav also took a jibe at CM Yogi and his ministers for their publicized Ganga dip. He highlighted the contrast between his party’s silent faith and the BJP’s public display. “Many Samajwadi Party workers and leaders have faith in their hearts. They, too, might have taken a holy dip in the Ganga, but they don’t broadcast it on social media or inform the media. Faith is personal, not performative,” Akhilesh stated.
Keshav Prasad Maurya Hits Back
Not one to let the comments slide, Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya countered Akhilesh’s remarks with sharp criticism. “The Mahakumbh 2025 is progressing in a grand and divine manner, yet Akhilesh Yadav is unable to appreciate the efforts and arrangements. Perhaps he is troubled by the cleanliness, discipline, and the sheer scale of this event, where millions take a holy dip every day. It seems he cannot digest this success,” Maurya retorted.
Maurya also questioned Akhilesh’s intentions, suggesting that his criticism stemmed from political frustration rather than genuine concern. “Instead of appreciating the seamless management of such a massive event, Akhilesh is nitpicking. His negativity reflects his inability to resonate with the spiritual and cultural sentiments of the people,” Maurya added.
The Bigger Picture
The BJP’s decision to hold a cabinet meeting at the Mahakumbh serves a dual purpose. On one hand, it showcases the party’s commitment to integrating governance with India’s cultural heritage. On the other, it sends a strong message about their alignment with the sentiments of the masses, particularly as the event draws millions of devotees from across the country.
For the opposition, however, such moves appear as deliberate attempts to politicize religion and exploit sacred platforms for electoral benefits. The SP’s reaction highlights their concern over the BJP’s growing dominance in the political narrative surrounding Indian culture and tradition.
Spirituality or Strategy?
The debate over the Yogi cabinet’s meeting at the Mahakumbh raises larger questions about the intersection of politics and spirituality. While the BJP argues that such initiatives reflect their dedication to India’s cultural roots, critics like Akhilesh Yadav view them as calculated moves to garner political mileage.
As the Mahakumbh progresses, this war of words is likely to intensify, with each side trying to frame the event to their advantage. For the people, however, the focus remains on the spiritual essence of the Kumbh, a confluence of faith, tradition, and devotion. Whether politics can overshadow this essence is a question that only time will answer.
