WEST Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s recent remark calling the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj the ‘Mrityu Kumbh (Death Kumbh)’ has sparked outrage across political parties, with several leaders condemning her statement and demanding an apology. Deputy Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Keshav Prasad Maurya, was quick to respond, stating, “Whether it’s Mamata Banerjee or Akhilesh Yadav, they are upset with the successful organisation of the Mahakumbh. They only support works related to Muslims, and nothing else appeals to them. Calling the Mahakumbh a ‘Mrityu Kumbh’ is an insult to billions of Hindus.”

 

The Deputy CM also warned of consequences, and demanded an apology from Mamata Banerjee. BJP Maharashtra Co-Chief Spokesperson Vishwas Pathak also voiced strong disapproval, remarking, “What else can you expect from Mamata Banerjee? The Mahakumbh is a matter of faith for all Hindus around the world. This Kumbh comes every twelve years, and this Maha Kumbh is happening after 144 years. People of all ages, from children to elderly women, want to take a dip there. Accidents do happen, but calling it a ‘Mrityu Kumbh’ and making such statements is highly objectionable.”

 

Samajwadi Party MLA Sangram Yadav condemned Banerjee’s aggressive tone, calling it “completely unacceptable” for a Chief Minister to use such inappropriate language. Congress MP Pramod Tiwari took a more measured approach, pointing out the difficulties faced during the event. “The sacred event had never been like this before; it has been turned into an event. There were deaths in Prayagraj, on Amavasya day, at the railway station in Delhi, and in the surrounding districts. There were accidents, 20-22-24 hour traffic jams, and it became difficult for the residents of Allahabad to stay,” said Tiwari.