Days after criticizing the crowd-control measures at the Kumbh Mela, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee raised questions on claims that this year’s Maha Kumbh is occurring after a gap of 144 years, urging experts to verify this information. In response, the BJP presented documents supporting their claim, labeling Banerjee’s statements as “misleading.”
“Gangasagar occurs annually, while Kumbh is held once every 12 years. The neem wood idol in the Puri temple is replaced every 12 years, based on specific traditions. If Kumbh is said to occur after 144 years, it’s important to note that it also took place in 2013,” Banerjee stated, disputing the claims.
Banerjee highlighted the loss of lives during this year’s Kumbh, emphasizing the importance of accurate information regarding the event. “It is inaccurate to assert that Kumbh happens every 144 years. Many lives have been lost due to the recent stampede, and I am not questioning the beliefs of the devotees. However, there is a need for knowledgeable individuals to clarify the facts surrounding Kumbh,” she said.
### BJP Labeled Remarks as ‘Misleading’
BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari criticized Banerjee for her comments about Kumbh, accusing her of spreading “misleading statements” to undermine significant religious events. He denounced her assertion regarding the cycle of the Maha Kumbh, citing historical and astronomical evidence to validate the tradition.
Chakraborty stated, “Her selective skepticism reveals her anti-Hindu political stance, especially as she dismisses not just the 144-year cycle but also the 12-year and 6-year cycles of Purna Kumbh and Ardha Kumbh.”
While refraining from directly commenting on Banerjee’s statements, actor-political leader Mithun Chakraborty expressed his pride in being a “Sanatani Hindu,” emphasizing the Kumbh’s role in achieving spiritual virtue for all participants.
### Banerjee Calls for Compensation for Victims
In her ongoing critique, Mamata Banerjee demanded that the Uttar Pradesh government expedite compensation to families of those who lost their lives during the Kumbh. “I urge Yogi Adityanath to quickly release the ex-gratia amounts promised to the families affected,” she said during a press briefing.
The Uttar Pradesh government previously announced compensation of Rs 25 lakh for each family impacted by the tragedy, which has drawn attention as the Maha Kumbh concludes.
Banerjee, who recently referred to the arrangements at Kumbh as “Mrityu Kumbh,” criticized the lack of organization and proper emergency measures. She pointed out that the West Bengal government had to issue death certificates for victims of the Kumbh disaster, indicating a failure in administration by the Uttar Pradesh government.
This unfolding situation highlights the need for enhanced safety measures at large-scale religious gatherings and continuous dialogue among political leaders to ensure the well-being of devotees.
