After 'Mrityu Kumbh' Remark, Mamata Clarifies on Maha Kumbh:

Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday dismissed claims that the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is taking place after 144 years, stating that the religious gathering occurs every 12 years.

This statement comes after she faced massive criticism for calling the event “Mrityu Kumbh” (Death Kumbh), in reference to the stampede tragedy during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh.

"The Maha Kumbh happens every 12 years. Those claiming it is happening after 144 years are incorrect. As far as I know, it was also held in 2014. The claim that Kumbh is taking place after 144 years is not true," Banerjee said.

BJP Hits Back: ‘Mamata’s Remarks Are Anti-Hindu’

The BJP strongly condemned Banerjee's remarks, accusing her of spreading misinformation and undermining Hindu traditions.

West Bengal LoP Suvendu Adhikari alleged:
“Her selective scepticism exposes her anti-Hindu political agenda. Her misleading statements are politically motivated attempts to belittle Sanatan Dharma, influenced by her appeasement politics.”

The BJP has been demanding large-scale protests against Banerjee’s comments, urging Hindu saints and religious groups to take a stand.

Mamata Banerjee Backtracks on ‘Mrityu Kumbh’ Comment

Banerjee later clarified her controversial ‘Mrityu Kumbh’ statement, insisting that her remarks were aimed at the event’s mismanagement, not the pilgrims.

"I never insulted the pilgrims. I respect them. My issue is with the lack of planning and preparation. If there is no proper system in place, people will suffer," she stated.

Her comments came after a stampede at the Sangam area on January 29, where at least 30 people lost their lives and 60 others were injured during the Mauni Amavasya holy dip.

Religious Leaders Demand Apology

Acharya Mahamandaleshwar Swami Arun Giri of Panch Dashnam Aavahan Akhara accused Banerjee of turning West Bengal into a state hostile to Sanatan Dharma.

Mahant Rajendra Das, president of Nirmohi Ani Akhara, called her remarks an attack on Hindu traditions and demanded a public apology.

Banerjee also claimed that VIPs were given special privileges at the Maha Kumbh, while poor devotees struggled with essential facilities. She compared the situation to the Ganga Sagar Mela in Bengal, asserting that her government never allowed VIP culture at the religious gathering.

With political tensions rising, Banerjee’s comments have sparked a fresh BJP vs. TMC battle over religious sentiments and governance.