Uttar Pradesh's political landscape has become turbulent in the wake of the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela. Akhilesh Yadav, the Samajwadi Party's national president and former Chief Minister, has accused the Yogi Adityanath government of politicizing the event and exploiting public sentiment.
Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh's political climate is heating up due to the 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela. Akhilesh Yadav, national president of the Samajwadi Party and former Chief Minister, has accused the Yogi Adityanath government of politicizing the Kumbh Mela and manipulating public emotions. He claims the government used the Kumbh Mela as a propaganda tool, thereby disrespecting religious traditions.
Akhilesh Yadav Attacks the Government
Akhilesh Yadav stated that the Chief Minister declared the Kumbh Mela's official closure on February 26th, at his convenience, depriving millions of devotees of the final ritual bath. He further alleged that the government neglected logistical management, leading to chaotic situations. He asserted that the state government is concealing the true number of deaths, fueling public anger.
The SP chief also attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi, claiming the government earned hundreds of billions of rupees from the Kumbh Mela but used the funds for publicity instead of public welfare. He posted on X (formerly Twitter), "While writing such grand narratives about the Kumbh Mela, you could have also spared two words for the dead and missing. Concealing the truth is a sign of guilt."
Questions Raised on FDI in the Insurance Sector
Furthermore, Akhilesh Yadav questioned the government's decision to increase the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit in the insurance sector. He argued that the BJP government views citizens not as citizens, but as consumers. Akhilesh Yadav stated, "Does allowing 100% FDI not make the insurance sector vulnerable? If foreign companies shirk their responsibilities in the future, who will protect the interests of the people?"
The Historic Conclusion of the Kumbh Mela
The Maha Kumbh Mela, which began on January 13th, 2025, has reached its conclusion. The number of devotees exceeded 660 million during the final bath on Maha Shivaratri, setting a new record. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath thanked all devotees and residents for the successful culmination of this historic event. He wrote on social media, "Organized under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Kumbh Mela has become a grand festival of faith, unity, and equality."
The ongoing political tension surrounding the Kumbh Mela's organization clearly indicates that both parties are strategizing in view of the 2024 and 2025 elections. While the BJP portrays the event as a success, the Samajwadi Party labels it an injustice to the people. Given this situation, further political controversy on this issue is likely in the coming days.
