VHP Criticizes Faultfinders of Maha Kumbh Arrangements

Synopsis
On January 31, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) criticized 'anti-Hindu forces' for their negative comments on the Maha Kumbh Mela arrangements following a deadly stampede in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. The VHP defended the event's management and highlighted the differences between Maha Kumbh and Hajj.
Key Takeaways
- VHP defends Maha Kumbh arrangements.
- Stampede in Prayagraj led to 30 deaths.
- Comparison of Maha Kumbh and Hajj criticized.
- Uttar Pradesh government praised for response.
- Measures implemented to prevent future incidents.
New Delhi, Jan 31 (NationPress) The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) expressed its sympathy for 'anti-Hindu forces' criticizing the arrangements for the Maha Kumbh Mela following a tragic stampede in Uttar Pradesh's Prayagraj that resulted in 30 fatalities and 60 injuries during the early hours of Wednesday.
In response to social media comparisons between the Maha Kumbh and Hajj, the VHP remarked, "The Maha Kumbh serves over 40 lakh attendees while Hajj accommodates only a few lakhs. One must pity the mental faculties of those making such unfounded comparisons."
Addressing the differences between these religious gatherings, the VHP stated: "It is widely recognized that after completing Hajj, individuals may become more fanatic, whereas after bathing in the Triveni Sangam, individuals pledge towards human welfare."
Furthermore, the VHP highlighted, "Everyone is aware of the challenges women face during Hajj. Last year, over 1,300 individuals lost their lives during Hajj; however, no one has perished from hunger, thirst, or lack of medical care during the Maha Kumbh."
VHP National Spokesperson Vinod Bansal commended the Uttar Pradesh government for effectively managing the situation after the stampede within an hour, enabling millions of devotees to complete their holy bath as scheduled and facilitating their return home.
"On a single day, over 400 trains operated from Prayagraj, which may very well be a record," he noted, praising the arrangements provided for the devotees' convenience.
Expressing gratitude towards the revered sants, Bansal mentioned that the seers prioritized the devotees' bathing time immediately after the stampede before taking their own dips.
Comparing the experiences of Hajis and Kumbh devotees, Bansal said: "On one side, there is a bath of purity, while on the other, there is a contest of throwing stones.On one side, we see service, dedication, sacrifice, and human welfare, while on the other, there is a philosophy of religious fanaticism."
Meanwhile, the Uttar Pradesh government has implemented various measures to prevent a recurrence of the crush that occurred on Wednesday, while a three-member judicial commission will investigate the cause of the stampede this Friday.