This is Mrityu Kumbh, says Mamata Banerjee targeting BJP over Maha Kumbh stampede

"It has turned into a Mrityu Kumbh," she was quoted as saying by the media.

"I have immense respect for the holy Ganges and Maha Kumbh," she said.

"There was no planning at all. So many people died this time," she said.

Trying to corner the BJP, she claimed no proper arrangements were made for the poor whereas the rich and VIP can avail of separate tents by paying Rs. 1 lakh.

"During a large public gathering a stampede-like incident can happen but did you make proper arrangements for the event?" she said.

At least 30 people died in a stampede incident in the ongoing Maha Kumbh in north Indian city of Prayagraj last month.

The Maha Kumbh or the Great Pitcher Festival is the largest religious congregation in the world.

It will continue till February 26.

The Bharatiya Janata Party countered Banerjee's 'Mrityu Kumbh' remark and said she launched a deliberate attack on one of Hinduism’s most revered pilgrimages.

BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya wrote on X: "West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, under the influence of Firhad Hakim, a known proponent of Dawat-e-Islam, has once again revealed her deep-seated contempt for Bharat’s cultural and religious traditions. By calling the sacred Maha Kumbh Mrityu Kumbh (Death Kumbh), she has launched a deliberate attack on one of Hinduism’s most revered pilgrimages, attended by millions for centuries."

"Mamata Banerjee never misses an opportunity to appease her vote bank, yet when it comes to Hindu festivals and traditions, her attitude shifts to disdain and hostility," he said.

He said: "Mamata Banerjee’s hypocrisy is evident—appeasement for one community and outright hostility towards another."

Delhi stampede

At least 18 people died and scores others were injured in a deadly stampede that occured at New Delhi Railway Station where hundreds of people had assembled on platforms 14 and 15 to board trains for Prayagraj.