Prayagraj: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a scathing attack on Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Samajwadi Party (SP) President Akhilesh Yadav, accusing them of conspiring against the Mahakumbh and wishing for a bigger disaster to occur during the event. His statement came in response to remarks made by Kharge and Yadav in the Lok Sabha regarding the tragic stampede at the Sangam on January 29, which claimed at least 30 lives and injured over 60 people.
Speaking to reporters in Prayagraj, CM Yogi said, “While the entire country and the world are witnessing the largest spiritual gathering of Sanatan Dharma with pride, there are elements working with an agenda to cause mischief and spread lies against Sanatan Dharma. These people (Akhilesh and Kharge) wanted an even bigger disaster during the Mahakumbh.”
He further criticized their comments, stating, “Their statements not only expose their anti-Sanatan Dharma nature but also reflect their predatory gaze, as they have been spreading malicious propaganda against the Mahakumbh from day one.”
CM Yogi condemned the remarks made by both leaders, calling them “disgraceful and shameful.” He specifically pointed out Kharge’s statement about thousands of people dying on the day of Mauni Amavasya in Prayagraj, saying, “It is unfortunate that such a senior leader would make such a misleading statement.” Yogi also criticized Akhilesh Yadav’s similar remarks, alleging that both parties were competing to make anti-Sanatan statements.
The Chief Minister praised the swift response of the police and administration in getting the injured to the hospital, calling it exemplary. He said, “Our first priority was to ensure that the event took place without any accidents, but unfortunately, this incident occurred. We provided proper treatment to the injured, and some are still being treated in Prayagraj hospitals.”
Yogi also emphasized that despite the tragic incident, the government is investigating all aspects of the event. He pointed out that on that day, between 8 to 10 crore people were present in Prayagraj, and ensuring their safety and getting them home was the government’s top priority. He condemned the opposition parties’ statements, claiming they were attempting to mislead the public. “Their remarks that millions of people did not take the dip are completely false. These statements are part of a conspiracy to defame Sanatan Dharma,” he added.
Yogi concluded by affirming that no tradition had been disrupted and that the Mahakumbh proceeded without any major issues, despite the unfortunate incident.