New Delhi: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has found herself at the center of a political storm after making a controversial remark about the ongoing Maha Kumbh 2025. The CM’s criticism of the event, specifically targeting Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath over the stampede-related deaths and mismanagement at the Maha Kumbh, has sparked outrage from BJP leaders.
While speaking in the West Bengal Assembly, Mamata Banerjee referred to the Maha Kumbh as “Mrityu Kumbh,” questioning the lack of planning and safety arrangements for devotees. She said, “I respect Maha Kumbh, I respect the holy Ganga Maa. But there is no planning. How many people have been recovered? For the rich, there are VIP arrangements, but for the poor, there are no facilities. Stampede situations are common in such events, but proper arrangements are necessary.”
The remark quickly ignited a political controversy, with BJP spokesperson Shehzaan Poonawalla accusing Mamata’s party, TMC, of indulging in what he termed “Talibani Mansikta and Culture.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Poonawalla criticized the repeated attacks on Hindu beliefs by leaders of the INDIA bloc, stating, “Can this ever be said about any other faith? Why such liberty only with Sanatan and Hindu? Just for vote bank appeasement, target Sanatan?” He further added, “The ‘Sar Tan Se Juda’ lobby will spread terror on the streets!”
The controversy also escalated due to remarks made by other prominent leaders, including DMK and SP, which have targeted elements of Hindu culture and beliefs. Poonawalla expressed his concern over such statements, asking, “Can this be said about the sacred beliefs, pilgrimages, festivals, or events of any other religion?”
