The Maha Kumbh Mela, a revered spiritual gathering in Prayagraj, has drawn millions of devotees seeking divine blessings. However, this year’s event took a tragic turn with a deadly stampede that claimed multiple lives. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee strongly criticized the Uttar Pradesh government, calling the event “Mrityu Kumbh” and accusing it of mismanagement, VIP favouritism, and neglecting the safety of ordinary pilgrims.
Mamata Banerjee’s Sharp Criticism
In a fiery address during the West Bengal Assembly session, Mamata Banerjee condemned the handling of the event, declaring, “I respect Maha Kumbh and Ganga Maa, but due to poor planning, this has become ‘Mrityu Kumbh’.” She accused the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government of prioritizing luxury camps for VIPs while failing to ensure the safety and well-being of common pilgrims.
Questioning the administration’s preparedness, Banerjee remarked, “Stampedes can happen in large gatherings, but why was there no proper crowd control? How many committees have been formed after the incident? Why was this event overhyped without ensuring basic security?”
The Sacred Legacy of Maha Kumbh
The Kumbh Mela holds deep spiritual significance in Hinduism, symbolizing the divine battle over immortality. According to mythology, drops of amrita (nectar of immortality) fell at four locations—Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik—during the cosmic churning of the ocean. The festival, held every 12 years in Prayagraj, is believed to cleanse devotees of their sins and grant spiritual liberation. This year, extensive preparations were made, with improved infrastructure, sanitation, and security arrangements. However, a tragic incident overshadowed the grandeur of the event.
The Tragic Stampede and Its Aftermath
On January 29, 2025, during one of the peak bathing days, a stampede at the Triveni Sangam led to the deaths of at least 30 people, with several others injured. Witnesses reported chaos as thousands rushed towards the riverbanks, overwhelming security personnel. Some reports suggested a second stampede, though officials have not confirmed it.
Adding to the controversy, Banerjee alleged that bodies of victims were sent to West Bengal without post-mortem examinations, allegedly to avoid compensating families. “They claimed people died of heart attacks to deny compensation. We had to conduct post-mortems here because the bodies arrived without proper documents,” she stated.
Political Fallout and Government Response
Banerjee’s remarks sparked a political firestorm, with BJP leaders accusing her of politicizing a religious event. The Uttar Pradesh government defended its management of the Maha Kumbh, emphasizing the extensive preparations, including enhanced security, medical teams, and crowd control measures. Despite the tragedy, authorities reassured devotees that the event was proceeding smoothly with increased vigilance.
The Maha Kumbh Mela remains a profound spiritual gathering, but the tragic loss of lives has raised critical questions about safety and administration. Mamata Banerjee’s attack on the Uttar Pradesh government has intensified the political debate surrounding the event. While faith continues to draw millions to Prayagraj, ensuring proper planning and accountability remains crucial to preventing such tragedies in the future.
(With inputs from agencies)
