- By Priyanka Koul
- Mon, 24 Feb 2025 07:04 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp attack on the opposition in Bihar, accusing them of disrespecting India's heritage and faith. He stated that those who believe in "jungle raj" oppose the country's cultural values and traditions, adding that the people of Bihar will never forgive those who insult the Maha Kumbh.
His remarks come amid ongoing criticism from opposition parties regarding alleged mismanagement, accidents, and water quality issues at the Maha Kumbh Mela, the world's largest spiritual gathering.
PM Modi’s Speech in Bhagalpur
Speaking at a public rally in Bhagalpur on Monday, PM Modi expressed his gratitude for being in the sacred land of Mandarachal during the Maha Kumbh. He highlighted the cultural and historical significance of the region, calling it the "land of faith, heritage, and India's bright future."
आज अपने किसान भाई-बहनों के लिए पीएम-किसान की 19वीं किस्त जारी करने का सौभाग्य मिला। मुझे बहुत संतोष है कि यह योजना देशभर के हमारे छोटे किसानों के बहुत काम आ रही है। pic.twitter.com/Uco2FDc1IQ
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2025
"This is the land of Shaheed Tilka Majhi, a place known for its rich history and culture. It is also India’s Silk City. As preparations for Maha Shivratri are underway, I am honored to send another installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana to farmers across the nation," he said.
Opposition Criticized for Disrespecting Heritage
During his speech, PM Modi emphasized the efforts of the NDA government at both the state and central levels to protect India's heritage while ensuring development. He criticized the opposition, particularly the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), for what he called their disregard for India’s cultural and religious traditions.
NDA सरकार ना होती, तो बिहार सहित देशभर के मेरे किसान भाई-बहनों को पीएम किसान सम्मान निधि ना मिलती। बीते 6 साल में इसका एक-एक पैसा सीधे हमारे अन्नदाताओं के खाते में पहुंचा है। pic.twitter.com/kkKbB7gEmz
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2025
"Those who support jungle raj hate our heritage and faith. They are now targeting the Maha Kumbh, the biggest festival of unity and spirituality," he remarked.
बिहार में जंगलराज लाने वाले लोग आज पवित्र महाकुंभ को भी कोसने का कोई मौका नहीं छोड़ रहे। ऐसे लोगों को यहां की जनता-जनार्दन कभी माफ नहीं करेगी। pic.twitter.com/oim6dAaTTK
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 24, 2025
He further pointed out that millions of devotees have taken a holy dip in the Maha Kumbh, surpassing the total population of Europe. Despite this, some political leaders are spreading negativity about the event.
"The same people who were upset about the Ram Temple are now using every opportunity to attack the Maha Kumbh. But I am confident that Bihar will never forgive those who insult this sacred event," PM Modi said.
Lalu Prasad Yadav’s Controversial Remarks on Maha Kumbh
The political controversy escalated last week when RJD chief Lalu Prasad Yadav dismissed the significance of the Maha Kumbh, calling it "meaningless." He also blamed the Indian Railways for the stampede at New Delhi railway station that claimed 18 lives, demanding the resignation of the railway minister.
When asked about the large number of devotees traveling to Prayagraj for the Kumbh, Lalu responded, "The Kumbh has no meaning… it is just meaningless."
Concerns Over Water Quality and Safety Issues
Apart from the stampede during the January 29 Shahi Snan, the opposition has raised concerns about the quality of water at Triveni Sangam, where millions of devotees take a holy dip. They claim the water is unfit for bathing, citing reports of contamination.
Additionally, recent safety incidents at the Maha Kumbh, combined with the tragic stampede at New Delhi railway station, have fueled debates over crowd management and security measures.
UP CM Yogi Adityanath Responds to Allegations
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath strongly refuted the allegations, calling them baseless and politically motivated. He accused the opposition of spreading fake news and videos to attack Sanatan Dharma, Maa Ganga, India, and the Maha Kumbh.
"The Sangam’s water is not only safe for bathing but also for drinking. There is a clear propaganda to defame the Maha Kumbh following the CPCB’s faecal bacteria report," CM Yogi stated.