Congress leader Husain Dalwai has criticized the preparations for the upcoming Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, highlighting the need for better management and facilities to cater to the millions of devotees expected to attend the grand religious gathering.
“Since a large number of people are coming to the Maha Kumbh, the arrangements should also be good. Devotees should be allowed to take a holy dip in the Ganga river in batches,” Dalwai stated. He pointed out issues such as inadequate lodging for the common people and poor overall infrastructure, which require urgent attention.
Dalwai raised serious concerns about public health during the event, emphasizing the need to prevent the spread of diseases. He remarked, “They should ensure that diseases do not spread. How will the sins of sinners be washed away by taking a dip? I don’t think so. No one should commit sins.”
The Congress leader accused the government of neglecting critical sectors like education and healthcare while fostering divisive narratives. “Education of poor people has been stopped, hatred is being spread, health facilities have been stopped. These are all sins,” he said, adding that these issues highlight systemic governance failures.
Dalwai also claimed that the current preparations for the Maha Kumbh are riddled with “many flaws” and called for immediate corrective measures to ensure a smooth experience for the millions of pilgrims.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is scheduled to take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, 2025. The event, held every 12 years, is expected to attract millions of devotees from across India and abroad.
On Friday, the Mahakumbh witnessed an unprecedented influx of over 10.80 crore devotees, who took a sacred plunge at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers in Prayagraj.
According to tradition, pilgrims flock to the Sangam to take a holy dip, believed to wash away sins and grant moksha (liberation). The Maha Kumbh places immense pressure on the city’s infrastructure, requiring comprehensive planning and efficient management.
As the countdown to the Maha Kumbh continues, Dalwai’s comments underscore the importance of addressing both immediate logistical challenges and broader systemic issues to ensure the event’s success while upholding public welfare.
