Political row over Chhattisgarh leaders’ visit to Kumbh Mela

RAIPUR,INDIA: A fresh political controversy has erupted in Chhattisgarh over the participation of several MPs and MLAs in the Kumbh Mela. Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel has suggested that VIPs should refrain from attending such mass gatherings, citing the overwhelming crowds. His remarks, however, triggered sharp reactions from the BJP leadership.

Reacting to Baghel’s statement, BJP leaders and state media in-charge Amit Chimnani, accused him of hypocrisy. They pointed out that senior Congress leaders such as Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, Digvijay Singh, and Chhattisgarh Congress in-charge Sachin Pilot had also visited the Kumbh in the past 24 hours, adhering to full VIP protocols.

Amit Chimnani alleged that Baghel and the Congress were frustrated because BJP leaders in Chhattisgarh were receiving opportunities to participate in religious events under the Vishnu Deo Sai government. He further claimed that Baghel had repeatedly mocked Sanatan Dharma and organizations like the Bajrang Dal in the past. "If Congress leaders from Chhattisgarh have also gone for the holy dip in the Ganga, will Baghel expel them from the party?" Chimnani questioned.

Taking a dig at Congress, Chimnani also referred to Mallikarjun Kharge’s past remarks questioning whether a Ganga bath could eradicate poverty. "Why does Baghel remain silent on such statements?" he asked. He also criticized the Congress’ national president from Karnataka for making controversial remarks about the Mahakumbh, while a Deputy Chief Minister from the same state participated in the religious event.

Bhupesh Baghel while interacting with media had said, "Who will go to the Mahakumbh and who will not depend on Maa Ganga. I have full faith, and this was my first visit to Prayagraj." However, he maintained that VIPs should avoid attending such large-scale religious gatherings due to the heavy crowds.

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister, his cabinet colleagues, Speaker, MLAs with family members are on visit to Prayagraj on Thursday.