Kolkata, 18 February 2025– West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday sharply criticized the central government and the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government for their handling of the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj.
Speaking at the West Bengal Assembly, she expressed her dismay over what she described as “mismanagement” at the religious event, which has recently been marred by deadly stampedes.
“Maha Kumbh has turned into ‘Mrityu Kumbh’ under BJP rule,” Banerjee said, condemning the lack of proper planning and facilities for the masses attending the event. She pointed to the disparity in arrangements, claiming that while VIPs could secure accommodations costing up to ₹1 lakh, the poor faced inadequate provisions. “For the rich, there are systems available, but for the poor, there is nothing. What planning did you make?” Banerjee asked, questioning the management of the event and its safety measures.
At least 30 people died in a stampede at the Kumbh Mela last month, while 18 more lost their lives in another recent stampede at a New Delhi railway station. Banerjee alleged that the Uttar Pradesh government had concealed many deaths to downplay the tragedy. “They have hidden hundreds of bodies to bring down the toll,” she claimed. The Chief Minister expressed sorrow over the incident, calling the stampede “deeply heartbreaking” and stressing the urgent need for better planning at such large-scale events to ensure public safety.
Turning to another political matter, Banerjee denied allegations from the BJP accusing her of links with Bangladeshi fundamentalists. “I’ll resign if you can prove it,” she declared, challenging the BJP to substantiate their claims. Banerjee also promised to bring the issue to the attention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, condemning what she described as the BJP’s tactics of using religion for political gain.
Addressing the growing criticism from BJP leaders, particularly the allegations raised by Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari regarding illegal immigration in Bengal, Banerjee rejected the claims.
Adhikari had suggested that anti-national activities were rampant in parts of Bengal, alleging that illegal immigrants, including Bangladeshis and Rohingyas, were being allowed to settle in the state. In response, Banerjee accused the BJP of spreading hatred and division.
The political tensions between the two parties were on display at the West Bengal Assembly on Tuesday, when BJP legislators staged a sit-in to protest what they allege is the Mamata government’s appeasement politics.
Over 30 BJP lawmakers shouted slogans against her administration, including “Murti bhangar sarkar aar nei darkar” (We don’t want a government that cannot stop vandalism of Puja pandals).
