‘Worst in history’: UP Deputy CM Criticizes SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav Over 2013 Kumbh Mela Management

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya has launched a scathing attack on Samajwadi Party (SP) Chief Akhilesh Yadav, blaming him for the mismanagement of the 2013 Kumbh Mela. Maurya described the event as the “worst in history,” citing numerous accidents that affected pilgrims during the gathering. He emphasized the significance of the upcoming 2025 Kumbh Mela, assuring that the government is making comprehensive preparations.

Maurya stated, “The Kumbh Mela was organized in Prayagraj in January 2013. Akhilesh Yadav had handed over the management of that Kumbh Mela to his uncle Azam Khan. Kumbh Mela had never been in such a bad condition in history to date. The visiting pilgrims even became victims of accidents.”

Akhilesh Yadav Questions BJP’s Readiness for 2025 Kumbh Mela

In response, Akhilesh Yadav criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for alleged misgovernance in preparations for the upcoming Prayagraj Mahakumbh Mela 2025. He highlighted concerns regarding the condition of pontoon bridges, stating that out of 22, only nine were fit for traffic, with the remaining in poor condition. Yadav claimed that the BJP had only completed 40 percent of the necessary work.

In a post on X, Yadav expressed his concerns: “Now that only 20 days are left for this mega event, how will the remaining bridges be built and how will crowd control and movement be possible? The BJP government should take this very seriously.”

Government’s Preparations for the Mahakumbh Mela

Despite the criticisms, the UP government has announced extensive arrangements for the Mahakumbh Mela, which will take place from January 10 to February 24, 2025. Over 5,000 special buses, including 550 electric vehicles, are set to assist the influx of devotees during peak days. The Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) also ensures world-class facilities for millions of attendees, including shelter for over 100,000 passengers and approximately 3,000 special fair trains.

Additionally, IRCTC has completed the construction of a luxury tent city, Mahakumbh Gram, near the Triveni Sangam, to accommodate the needs of the devotees. The event will feature major bathing festivals, known as “Shahi Snan,” on significant dates including January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).