Union Minister and Bengal BJP chief Sukanta Majumdar spearheaded a significant protest against Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s controversial remarks regarding the Maha Kumbh Mela, which she referred to as “Mrityu Kumbh”. This protest coincided with Majumdar’s communication to the Bengal Governor, requesting action on the matter.
Majumdar expressed his concerns in a letter to the Governor of West Bengal, CV Anand Bose, condemning what he described as “anti-Hindu” remarks made by Banerjee in the State Legislative Assembly. He highlighted that the Chief Minister’s comments disrespected the sentiments of millions of devotees who hold the sacred event in Prayagraj in high regard.
He articulated the gravity of the situation, stating, “It is unfortunate that a person in such a high constitutional position has made a remark that disrespects religious traditions and fosters division in society.” Majumdar’s letter emphasized the need for leaders to uphold constitutional values and respect all faiths, labeling the Chief Minister’s statements as unworthy of her office.
Banerjee’s remarks followed a deadly stampede at the event earlier this year, which resulted in the loss of at least 30 lives. During the assembly session, she accused the Yogi Adityanath government of inadequate planning and alleged that the Uttar Pradesh government prioritized VIPs over public safety.
In his letter, the Union Minister demanded that the Chief Minister’s comment be removed from the Assembly record and insisted on a public apology. He warned that unchecked remarks of this nature could lead to social unrest and hurt religious sentiments.
The BJP has strongly criticized Banerjee’s comments, suggesting they were politically motivated rather than reflective of true sensitivity. A national spokesperson from the BJP pointed out that her statements align with the opposition’s agenda against Sanatan Dharma.
The seer community also voiced their condemnation, labeling her remarks as an affront to Sanatan Dharma and calling for an apology. Mahant Jamuna Puri, a member of the Shri Panchayati Akhara Mahanirvani, asserted the global significance of the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh, urging the Chief Minister to refrain from using derogatory language in reference to such a revered event.
In response to the incident, the BJP staged a protest in Kolkata to express their discontent with the Trinamool Congress chief’s statements.
