Maha Kumbh Controversy Arises Over Mulayam Singh Yadav Statue Installation in Fair Area

A statue of Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav was unveiled at a camp in the Maha Kumbh Mela area, sparking controversy. Several seers expressed their disapproval of the installation. The statue, measuring two to three feet, was inaugurated on Saturday by the Mulayam Singh Yadav Smriti Seva Sansthan in Sector 16, according to Leader of Opposition in Uttar Pradesh Assembly Mata Prasad Pandey.

The Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad criticised the move, with its president Mahant Ravindra Puri stating that Mulayam Singh Yadav had consistently opposed Hindu and Sanatan values. "We have no objection to Mulayam Singh's statue. He has been our chief minister. But what message do they SP people want to give by installing the statue at this time? Everyone knows what his contribution has been in the Ram temple movement. He has always been anti-Hindu, anti-Sanatan and in favour of Muslims," Puri said.

Statue Installation Sparks Debate

SP leader Pandey explained that the statue was inaugurated by him as a tribute to their leader, aiming to promote his thoughts and ideas. He invited pilgrims and visitors to the camp for food and accommodation, noting that the statue was installed symbolically. Pandey mentioned that after the Maha Kumbh, the statue would be moved back to the party office.

When asked about SP chief Akhilesh Yadav's potential visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela, Pandey stated he had not discussed it with him yet. However, he shared that he had taken a dip in the Sangam on Saturday and planned to return there.

Reactions from Religious Leaders

Puri further commented that installing Mulayam Singh's statue seemed intended to provoke seers by reminding them of past conflicts involving their community. Juna Akhara's Mahamandaleshwar Yati Narsinghanand supported Puri's stance, agreeing that it was appropriate for the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad to denounce this action.

Mulayam Singh Yadav had a significant political career, serving as defence minister and thrice as chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. He was elected as an MLA ten times and as an MP seven times, primarily representing Mainpuri and Azamgarh. His death occurred on October 10, 2022.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between political actions and religious sentiments in India. It raises questions about how leaders' legacies are commemorated in public spaces and their impact on community relations.