Kolkata/New Delhi – West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a scathing attack on the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government over the arrangements at the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, calling it “Mrityu Kumbh” due to alleged mismanagement. The BJP, in turn, accused her of attempting to defame Hindu traditions and being “nervous” about her political future.
Speaking in the state assembly, Banerjee said, “I respect Maha Kumbh and Ganga Maa, but there is no planning. The arrangements favor VIPs, while the poor suffer. A stampede-like situation arose, and people faced hardships.”
BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari strongly condemned her remarks, calling on the Hindu and saint communities to protest. He led BJP legislators in a sit-in at the assembly, accusing Banerjee of appeasement politics.
In Delhi, BJP IT Cell head Amit Malviya claimed her comments reflected her fear of a political downfall, drawing parallels to Arvind Kejriwal’s recent electoral defeat. He also accused her of being influenced by individuals linked to anti-India elements.
The controversy has further intensified political tensions ahead of the 2026 West Bengal assembly elections.
