Pappu Yadav's controversial remark: Politicians, wealthy at Maha Kumbh should 'die for moksha'

NEW DELHI: Amid politics around the stampede in the Maha Kumbh, Lok Sabha MP Rajesh Ranjan, alias Pappu Yadav, made a controversial statement wishing for politicians and wealthy individuals to "die at Maha Kumbh" to achieve "moksha".

He said, "I won't name the 'baba' but will quote him... He said all those who died in the stampede have attained 'mokhsa'. So, I want that most 'babas', politicians and those with big money should also take dip (in the Sangam) and die there to attain 'moksha' or 'kalyan'. I am saying such 'babas' should get 'moksha'."

During a debate on the Motion of Thanks, the Independent MP from Purnea, Bihar, alleged that between 300-600 victims of the January 29 stampede were removed from the Kumbh area without proper Hindu funeral rites.

However, official figures from the Uttar Pradesh government confirmed that the early morning stampede in Prayagraj during the second 'Amrit Snan' on Mauni Amavasya (January 29) resulted in 30 fatalities and 60 injuries.

Yadav cited a similar incident during Nehru's rule, alleging that whilst deaths occurred during the Kumbh at that time, there was proper documentation. He emphasised that despite today's advanced technology and social media, reports suggest numerous bodies were disposed of without traditional Hindu ceremonies.

The stampede incident sparked debates in both Houses of Parliament on Tuesday. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav accused the authorities of concealing actual casualties, whilst Trinamool Congress MP Saugata Roy termed it one of Independent India's gravest disasters.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and opposition members demanded a detailed list of casualties in Parliament on Monday.

Meanwhile, the BJP, quoted by PTI, suggested a possible conspiracy behind the tragedy, stating that those responsible would face shame once investigations conclude.

As the debate continues over actual numbers of casualties continue, UP CM Yogi Adityanath gave an update on the handling of the situation saying, "The tragic incident was handled quickly by the administration, with efforts to send the injured to hospitals. Despite millions attending, our priority was to avoid any casualties. Unfortunately, an incident occurred, but the quick response helped mitigate the damage. The injured received proper treatment, and we have expressed condolences and announced financial compensation. A new commission has been formed to investigate, but our primary focus was ensuring the safe return of the 8-9 crore attendees."

Yogi also expressed pride in witnessing the grand event, calling it a significant moment for Sanatan Dharma , while criticising opposition, who raised doubts around the reports given over the stampede, for "their anti-Sanatan Dharma stance".