The ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj has become the center of a major political debate after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee referred to it as “Mrityukumbh” (Death Kumbh) instead of the traditional Maha Kumbh. While acknowledging the spiritual and cultural significance of the event, she strongly criticized the Uttar Pradesh government’s handling of the festival, raising concerns over poor planning, lack of safety measures, and negligence toward the underprivileged.
Her remarks, made during the budget session of the West Bengal Assembly, immediately sparked protests from opposition leaders, particularly from the BJP, who accused her of insulting Hindu sentiments.
Mamata Banerjee’s Allegations on Maha Kumbh
Mamata Banerjee, during her speech, made five key allegations about the management and execution of the Maha Kumbh:
- Poor Planning & Safety Negligence
She alleged that no proper planning was made for the festival, leading to chaotic situations. She pointed out that multiple incidents of stampedes and accidents have occurred, resulting in deaths. However, she claimed that there has been no transparency or acknowledgment from the authorities about these casualties. - Missing Pilgrims & Lack of Accountability
The Chief Minister stated that many pilgrims who attended the Kumbh have gone missing, and their families are struggling to find any information about them. She accused the Uttar Pradesh government of failing to provide a proper response or assistance to the affected families. - VIP Culture vs. Neglect of the Poor
Mamata Banerjee criticized the stark contrast in facilities provided at the festival, alleging that while VIPs and wealthy individuals had access to luxury accommodations costing up to ₹1 lakh per tent, there was no proper arrangement for the poor and general pilgrims. - Frequent Stampedes & Lack of Crowd Control Measures
She stated that stampedes and overcrowding are common occurrences at the Maha Kumbh, but despite knowing this, the government failed to implement adequate crowd control measures. She questioned the Uttar Pradesh government’s disaster management plan and asked what steps were taken to prevent such tragedies. - Demand for Better Festival Management
She urged the authorities to prioritize safety and fair treatment for all attendees, ensuring that the event remains a sacred gathering rather than a chaotic disaster.
Political Backlash Against Mamata’s Remarks
Mamata Banerjee’s statement triggered an immediate reaction from the opposition, particularly from the BJP. Leaders strongly condemned her “Mrityukumbh” remark, calling it an attack on Hindu traditions.
BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari accused Mamata Banerjee of hurting Hindu sentiments and called on the Hindu community and saints to protest against her statement. He stated:
“I appeal to the Hindu community and saints to register a strong protest. A short while ago, in the West Bengal Assembly, Mamata Banerjee insulted Maha Kumbh by calling it ‘Mrityukumbh’. Hindus must unite beyond politics and oppose her remarks.”
Similar Remarks from Other Opposition Leaders
Mamata Banerjee is not the only political leader to have made controversial remarks about the Kumbh festival. In the past, several opposition leaders have questioned its significance and the government’s handling of it.
Lalu Prasad Yadav’s Past Comment on Kumbh
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav had earlier dismissed Kumbh Mela as meaningless, stating that it served no real purpose. His comment came after a stampede at New Delhi Railway Station on February 15, where 18 people lost their lives, including nine from Bihar.
Lalu blamed the tragedy on railway mismanagement and negligence, demanding that the Railway Minister take full responsibility. He said:
“This is a tragic incident. I pay my respects to those who lost their lives. The incident happened due to railway mismanagement and negligence. The Railway Minister must take responsibility for this loss of lives.”
Mallikarjun Kharge’s Criticism of the Kumbh Rituals
On January 27, during a rally in Madhya Pradesh, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge questioned the belief that taking a dip in the Ganges during Kumbh can remove poverty. He mocked BJP leaders for their eagerness to participate in the ritual while neglecting the real issues of the country.
He said:
“Bathing in the Ganges during the Kumbh will not eradicate poverty. BJP leaders are more interested in taking dips in the river rather than addressing the country’s real problems.”
Rahul Gandhi’s Broader Criticism on Social Inequality
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, also made statements linking the festival to social inequality. He argued that the current government is pushing Dalits, backward classes, and poor general caste individuals toward subjugation. He further emphasized the lack of employment opportunities, even for IIM and IIT graduates, questioning how ordinary citizens could expect better prospects.
Religious Gatherings vs. Political Agendas
The Maha Kumbh Mela is considered one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, with millions of devotees participating in ritualistic bathing in the Ganges. However, in recent years, such gatherings have increasingly become a topic of political debate.
While one section views it as a sacred tradition, others highlight issues related to infrastructure, crowd management, and social disparities.
Conclusion: Faith, Governance, and Political Debate
Mamata Banerjee’s “Mrityukumbh” remark has undoubtedly sparked a controversy, with polarized reactions from different political factions. While her concerns about mismanagement and safety issues are valid, her choice of words has led to a strong backlash from BJP leaders and Hindu organizations.
The Maha Kumbh Mela continues to be a symbol of faith and devotion for millions, but it also raises crucial questions about government accountability, infrastructure preparedness, and equitable treatment for all attendees. The debate surrounding its organization and significance is unlikely to die down anytime soon, especially with elections approaching.