Maha Kumbh: 90,000 UP jail inmates to take holy bath with Sangam water; know how

NEW DELHI: The Uttar Pradesh jail administration is set to bring holy water from Prayagraj's Sangam to 75 jails across the state, allowing over 90,000 inmates to participate in the Maha Kumbh from within prison walls.

According to the office of UP Jail minister Dara Singh Chauhan, the programme will take place in all jails on February 21, from 9.30am to 10am. The initiative is being carried out under the supervision of Director General (DG) of Prisons PV Ramasastry.

The Sangam’s ‘gangajal’ will be transported to all 75 jails, including seven central prisons, where it will be mixed with regular water and stored in a small tank.

Prisoners will bathe in the sanctified water after prayers, ensuring their participation in the spiritual event despite confinement.

Minister Chauhan and senior jail officials are expected to attend the event at Lucknow Jail on February 21.

At Gorakhpur district jail, Jailor AK Kushwaha confirmed that prison guard Arun Maurya has been sent to Prayagraj to collect the sacred water.

Naini Central Jail and Prayagraj District Jail are also making similar arrangements, with senior superintendent Amita Dubey noting that 1,350 inmates are eagerly awaiting the ritual.

Meanwhile, Unnao Jail conducted a similar programme on February 17, allowing inmates an early opportunity to partake in the ritual.

Jail Superintendent Pankaj Kumar Singh said prisoners will get a second chance on February 21, as authorities will arrange another 'snan'.

The Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj is set to conclude on February 26.


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