Yogi Adityanath Defends Mahakumbh Amid Criticism

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has defended the Mahakumbh event in Prayagraj, countering West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee's criticisms. Adityanath praised the event's success amid allegations of mismanagement, highlighting a massive pilgrimage presence and ongoing judicial inquiry into a tragic stampede incident.

In a robust defense, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath responded to criticisms, notably those from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, regarding the Mahakumbh event in Prayagraj. Banerjee had dubbed the gathering a 'Mrityu Kumbh' due to alleged mismanagement. Adityanath countered by describing it as a 'Mrityunjay Mahakumbh,' celebrating its success despite logistical challenges.

During a detailed interview with ANI, Adityanath accused the West Bengal government of feeling threatened by the substantial number of devotees traveling from Bengal to Prayagraj, with up to 100,000 pilgrims arriving daily. He rebuked opposition criticism as an offense to India's faith and merely appeasement politics. According to Adityanath, the Mahakumbh proved India's deep-rooted spiritual resilience.

Banerjee's critique followed a deadly stampede during the Mauni Amavasya bathing ritual. Adityanath revealed that a judicial commission has been tasked with investigating the incident, following High Court and Supreme Court protocols. Despite such challenges, the festival saw record participation, with over 66 crore pilgrims attending, a milestone Adityanath attributed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership.

(With inputs from agencies.)