‘Maha Kumbh Becomes Mrityu Kumbh’: Mamata Banerjee Slams UP Govt Over Prayagraj Stampede
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government, describing the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj as a “Mrityu Kumbh” (Festival of Death) due to what she perceives as rampant mismanagement. Speaking during the Budget Session in the West Bengal Assembly, Banerjee highlighted the stark contrast in facilities provided to VIPs versus the common pilgrims.
Banerjee pointed out the disparity in how the event was managed, criticizing the special treatment given to VIPs, who could afford luxury tents costing up to Rs 1 lakh, while the poor were left without basic amenities. She contrasted this with her state’s management of the Ganga Sagar Mela, where she claims there is no VIP culture.
The criticism comes in the wake of a tragic stampede at the Sangam area of Prayagraj on January 29, during the auspicious Mauni Amavasya, which resulted in at least 30 deaths and 60 injuries. Banerjee questioned the lack of proper planning and the hype surrounding the event, suggesting that such tragedies are an expected outcome of poor management.
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Further, Banerjee accused the BJP of using religion to divide the nation, stating, “I am proud of being a Hindu. Religion is not something which has to be sold.” She also expressed concerns over the treatment of deceased pilgrims from West Bengal, alleging that bodies were sent back without post-mortems, potentially to avoid compensation responsibilities by labeling deaths as heart attacks.
The West Bengal Chief Minister emphasized the necessity for meticulous planning for large gatherings like the Kumbh Mela, questioning the effectiveness of the commissions sent to investigate the incident. She highlighted her state’s approach to similar events as a model of better management and care for all attendees, regardless of their social standing.
