Akhilesh Yadav Advocates Harmony at Maha Kumbh While Criticising BJP's Management

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav took a holy dip at the Sangam, emphasising the need for harmony and goodwill from the Maha Kumbh. He criticised the BJP's handling of the event, urging it not to become a sports spectacle. Yadav highlighted that the Kumbh should promote unity and tolerance, not negative politics.

Yadav noted that despite limited funds, the previous Samajwadi Party government successfully organised the Kumbh Mela. He suggested that more facilities could have been provided with the allocated funds, as visitors, especially the elderly, face challenges due to long distances. The BJP responded by suggesting Yadav might find peace after his holy bath.

Focus on Harmony and Unity

During Republic Day celebrations, Yadav participated in the Maha Kumbh, taking 11 dips in the Sangam as per tradition. He stated, "Kumbh should send a positive message... that there should be harmony and goodwill and everyone should keep moving forward with tolerance." The event's spiritual significance draws people without advertisements or invitations.

Yadav paid tribute to his father, Mulayam Singh Yadav, by garlanding his statue. He also received blessings from Jyotish Peethadheeshwar Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati. Mukundanand Brahmachari mentioned that Maharaj Shri advised Yadav on protecting indigenous cows during their meeting.

BJP's Response and Criticism

The BJP took a swipe at Yadav, suggesting he would hopefully refrain from comments that hurt religious sentiments after his holy bath. Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya remarked on X, "Akhilesh Yadav ji, better late than never." He expressed hope that Yadav would avoid statements harming religious sentiments post-bath.

BJP spokesperson Rakesh Tripathi commented on Yadav's visit to the Sangam. "It is hoped that Akhilesh Yadav's mind will calm down after the Sangam bath," he said. Tripathi added that Yadav had previously made negative remarks about Kumbh but might now appreciate its grandeur.

Maha Kumbh's Significance

The Maha Kumbh is celebrated for its unity in diversity. On Makar Sankranti, Yadav had taken a dip in Haridwar's Ganga river. When asked about visiting Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, he affirmed his regular attendance at such religious gatherings. "Some people go to bathe in the Ganga to gain punya virtue," he told reporters.

According to official figures from Uttar Pradesh government, 1.17 crore people took a dip in the Sangam by late afternoon on Sunday. Since January 13, a total of 11.47 crore visitors have attended the Maha Kumbh. This year's event marks a significant occasion as it occurs after 144 years.