PM Modi slams Opposition over 'Slave Mentality' remarks on Maha Kumbh

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Feb 23 slammed the Opposition, accusing it of ridiculing religious traditions and attempting to sow division in society. His remarks, made during a public address in Madhya Pradesh's Chhattarpur, came amid ongoing political controversy over criticisms of the Maha Kumbh Mela by several opposition leaders.

Without naming specific politicians, Modi denounced those who, he claimed, undermine India's religious heritage due to a "slave mentality." He further alleged that such figures receive support from foreign entities aiming to weaken the country’s spiritual and cultural fabric.

"Nowadays, there is a group of leaders who mock religion, ridicule traditions, and divide people. Many times, foreign powers also try to weaken the country and its faith by supporting these individuals. People who despise Hindu beliefs have existed in different eras," Modi stated.

Opposition faces BJP’s wrath

The remarks come days after West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee controversially referred to the Maha Kumbh as 'Mrityu Kumbh,' citing stampede-related deaths in Delhi and Prayagraj. Banerjee alleged that authorities were suppressing the true death toll.

Other opposition leaders have also questioned the arrangements and scale of the Maha Kumbh. Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the financial expenditure, while Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge claimed that "thousands" had perished in the stampedes. Rajya Sabha MP Jaya Bachchan alleged that bodies were discarded in the Ganga, and RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav dismissed the gathering as ‘useless.’

In response, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended the Maha Kumbh, stating that over 62 crore devotees had attended so far, calling it "one of the rarest events of the century." Speaking at the Unicorn Companies Conclave in Agra, Adityanath likened the mass gathering to a "Unicorn Maha Kumbh of the startup world."

Modi praises spiritual leaders, announces cancer institute

During his speech, Modi also lauded Bageshwar Dham’s spiritual leader, Dhirendra Shastri for promoting unity. Announcing a significant healthcare initiative, he revealed plans for a cancer institute at Bageshwar Dham.

"Dhirendra Shastri has long been spreading the mantra of unity. Now, he has taken another resolution for society and humanity—a cancer institute. This means that here, at Bageshwar Dham, devotees will receive blessings through bhajan, food, and healthcare," Modi said.

Cultural revival amid political tensions

UP CM Adityanath, who is also the Mahant of Gorakshapeeth, underscored the Maha Kumbh’s importance in reconnecting people with their spiritual and cultural heritage. "A time was envisioned when Indians might feel disconnected from traditions. The Kumbh serves as a powerful medium to restore that connection," he asserted.

As political tensions over the Maha Kumbh continue to rise, the BJP remains firm in its defense of the event, framing it as a symbol of India's enduring cultural unity. Meanwhile, opposition leaders maintain their stance, raising concerns over safety and governance surrounding the grand religious congregation.