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Maha Kumbh Mela Controversy: Akhilesh Yadav’s Sharpened Criticism of UP Government
Former UP CM Akhilesh Yadav taking a holy dip in Sangam during Maha Kumbh Mela 2025. (X/@@yadavakhilesh)
Bodies were allegedly removed using JCB machines and tractors, with their final destinations unknown, claimed former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav during parliamentary proceedings discussing the Maha Kumbh stampede. This statement is likely to provoke controversy ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s visit to Prayagraj on Wednesday.
Call for Indian Army’s Involvement
The Samajwadi Party (SP) chief called for immediate transfer of Maha Kumbh Mela administration and management to the Indian Army, citing a lack of faith in the Uttar Pradesh government’s management capability.
Delayed Acknowledgment of Casualties
Akhilesh Yadav alleged that the UP government only acknowledged nearly 30 deaths 17 hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind mourned the victims in the stampede on January 29.
Request for Accurate Data
The SP chief urged the government to provide accurate figures on the casualties, treatment of the injured, and overall event arrangements. “It’s crucial we know the exact numbers of those who died, the treatment provided to the injured, and the availability of necessary amenities,” he emphasized.
Call for Strict Punitive Measures
“There must be strict punitive action against those responsible for the tragedy and those who concealed the truth,” said Yadav. He questioned the government’s decision to suppress casualty numbers.
Political Campaigning vs. Disaster Management
Akhilesh Yadav criticized the UP government’s focus on political campaigning during the event, instead of prioritizing disaster preparedness. “Political campaigning in such holy events is disgraceful, especially in today’s digital age,” he added.
Dispute Over Government Response
When information emerged about fatalities, the government responded by using helicopters to shower flowers, a move Yadav called “ridiculous” and out of keeping with traditional practices.
Miracle in Finding Victims
Yadav noted the “miracle” of finding victims but criticized the government for not acknowledging the situation promptly. “Where proper arrangements should have been made, there was instead political branding,” he said.
Accusations of Contamination
The row over mismanagement extended to SP MP Jaya Bachchan’s claim that the Ganga water in Prayagraj was highly contaminated due to the disposal of bodies in the river.
Watch: On #Mahakumbh2025, Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav says, “The Kumbh has been organized for centuries. Our ancient texts and historical documents show that at every point in time, regardless of which government was in power, they organized the Mahakumbh or similar… pic.twitter.com/VTlBsimnho— IANS (@ians_india) February 4,2025
Conclusion and Criticism
Akhilesh Yadav’s criticism struck a chord with many who are concerned about the management and future of the Maha Kumbh Mela. As pressure mounts, the government will need to provide clear answers and improvements to regain public trust.
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Allahabad, India
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