Prayagraj: Excitement is building up around the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, as a massive influx of devotees arrives, both from across India and abroad. On Sunday, January 26, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav visited the event with his family. He took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam and offered prayers to the Sun. SP leaders and workers were also in attendance.
Speaking to TV9 Bharatvarsh, Akhilesh said that he took a dip 11 times. He explained that January 26 holds significance, and on this day, he wished for the country’s development and the prosperity of its people. He expressed his desire for harmony, goodwill, and tolerance to prevail.
Improvements can be made: Akhilesh
Commenting on the arrangements for the Maha Kumbh, Akhilesh acknowledged that improvements can always be made. He pointed out that even when Rs 800 crore and Rs 1300 crore were spent on the arrangements, they were still commendable. Referring to an incident where lives were lost at a railway station, Akhilesh clarified that it was not a result of the Samajwadi Party government’s actions.
Instead, it was due to a mishandling by the Railway Department, which altered the platform and made an incorrect announcement, leading to the stampede. He added that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath seemed unaware of the details.
Akhilesh raises concerns
Akhilesh said that his party has raised concerns periodically to prompt the government to address any shortcomings. He reiterated that the question is not about how much money is being spent on the Kumbh but whether adequate facilities are being provided to the people attending. He also reminded that the resolution for Maa Ganga has been to ensure that the river flows cleaner, better, and purer, though he felt that now might not be the right time to focus on that issue.
