CM Yogi Adityanath Slams Critics of Maha Kumbh, Questions West Bengal’s Law and Order During Holi Violence

Lucknow, March 16: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has strongly condemned those who raised doubts about the grand Maha Kumbh event, scheduled to be held in Prayagraj in 2025. He particularly took a dig at critics who labeled the religious gathering as ‘Mrityu Kumbh’ (Death Kumbh), stating that these very individuals have failed to maintain law and order in their own states, citing the recent violence during Holi in West Bengal.

Addressing a gathering in Lucknow, CM Yogi said, “Those who are questioning the arrangements for the Maha Kumbh and calling it ‘Mrityu Kumbh’ should first answer why they failed to control riots and violence during Holi in West Bengal. Festivals should be about celebration, not chaos. But in some states, law and order break down due to appeasement politics.”

Sharp Criticism of West Bengal Government

The Uttar Pradesh CM’s remarks came in response to reports of communal tensions and violence in various districts of West Bengal during Holi. Allegations of stone pelting, vandalism, and attacks on processions surfaced in different parts of the state, sparking a political storm. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders have accused the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government of failing to ensure peace during the festival.

CM Yogi, without naming West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, further added, “On one hand, they insult Hindu festivals and religious gatherings like Kumbh, and on the other, they cannot even ensure the safety of devotees during Holi. This double standard must be exposed.”

Maha Kumbh 2025: A Grand Religious Spectacle

The Kumbh Mela, which is set to take place in Prayagraj next year, is being prepared on an unprecedented scale. CM Yogi Adityanath has been personally overseeing the arrangements to ensure a seamless experience for the millions of devotees expected to participate.

Dismissing concerns about the festival’s management, he assured that “Kumbh will be organized with full grandeur, and it will set an example for the world in terms of planning, security, and devotion.” He also highlighted that the state government is investing heavily in infrastructure, security, sanitation, and public amenities to make the event a success.

Opposition’s Take on Maha Kumbh Preparations

Several opposition leaders and critics have questioned the large-scale preparations and expenditure for the Maha Kumbh, raising concerns about public safety, hygiene, and crowd management. Some have even drawn parallels with past stampedes and mishaps at religious gatherings.

However, CM Yogi dismissed these apprehensions as “propaganda to malign Hindu traditions” and reaffirmed that “Maha Kumbh is not just a religious event but a matter of faith for crores of devotees. Our government will ensure that no devotee faces any trouble.”

BJP vs TMC: Political War Intensifies

Yogi Adityanath’s remarks have added fuel to the ongoing political battle between the BJP and the TMC. While BJP leaders have repeatedly attacked the Mamata Banerjee-led government over law and order issues, TMC leaders have accused the BJP of attempting to communalize festivals for political gains.

Reacting to Yogi Adityanath’s comments, senior TMC leader and West Bengal minister Firhad Hakim said, “The UP CM should first look at the law and order situation in his own state before making allegations against Bengal. His own state has witnessed riots and police atrocities.”

Hindu Festivals and Politics: A Recurring Debate

The war of words over religious festivals has been a recurring theme in Indian politics. From Durga idol immersions in Bengal to Kumbh Mela arrangements in Uttar Pradesh, different political parties have often clashed over how Hindu festivals are managed and perceived.

With the Lok Sabha elections approaching in 2024, the Maha Kumbh and issues surrounding it are likely to become a focal point of political debates, with the BJP positioning itself as the protector of Hindu traditions and the opposition questioning the governance priorities.

As the political storm continues, all eyes remain on the preparations for Maha Kumbh 2025 and the law-and-order situation in states like West Bengal, where festival-related violence has once again ignited nationwide discussions.