New Delhi, Feb 19 (NationPress) Tantrapeethadhishwar Aniket Shastri Maharaj of Trimbakeshwar on Wednesday condemned West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for her controversial remark labeling the Maha Kumbh as 'Mrityu Kumbh' (Death Kumbh) and called for a public apology to Hindus.

Shastri Maharaj stated, 'Mamata Banerjee, the CM of West Bengal, made an extremely misguided statement regarding the Maha Kumbh. We empathize with her as her wisdom appears to have diminished with age.'

He went on to criticize the Bengal CM for making such statements that offend the religious sentiments of millions of Hindus, particularly given that the Maha Kumbh is considered one of the most sacred events in Hinduism.

Shastri Maharaj highlighted ongoing issues in West Bengal, remarking, 'In West Bengal, Hindus are facing violence, doctors are being assaulted, and strikes are prevalent, yet Mamata Banerjee chooses to remain silent. But when it comes to the Maha Kumbh and the faith of Hindus, she makes such disparaging remarks.'

'Mamata Banerjee must apologize to all Hindus for her comments. Failure to do so may lead to severe repercussions. A treason case should be initiated against her for such remarks, and she should face imprisonment,' the seer added.

CM Banerjee's comments emerged during her critique of the Uttar Pradesh government's 'poor planning and inadequate arrangements'.

'This is Mrityu Kumbh. I hold the Maha Kumbh and the holy Ganga Maa in high regard. However, there is a lack of proper planning. How many individuals have been rescued? There are facilities for VIPs, costing up to Rs 1 lakh for tents, but no arrangements for the underprivileged, which has resulted in a stampede-like situation at Kumbh Mela,' Banerjee expressed.

Her remarks have ignited significant backlash, prompting religious leaders and political figures to demand a public apology.