New Delhi, Feb 3 (PTI) – BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad on Monday claimed in the Lok Sabha that the ruling party suspects a conspiracy behind the tragic Maha Kumbh stampede, asserting that those responsible will face disgrace once the investigation concludes.
Speaking during the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address, Prasad, the MP from Patna Sahib, emphasized the scale of the religious gathering, stating that 35 crore devotees had taken a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh so far.
"There was a tragedy at the Maha Kumbh... An investigation is underway. We do smell a conspiracy there... Once the probe is complete, those behind it will have to hang their heads in shame," said Prasad, a former Union minister.
Maha Kumbh Tragedy: A Deepening Controversy
The stampede occurred at the Sangam area in Prayagraj on Mauni Amavasya, one of Hinduism’s most sacred days, claiming at least 30 lives and injuring 60 others in the early hours of the day.Prasad also took aim at the Opposition, alleging that it becomes uncomfortable whenever topics related to Kumbh or Sanatan Dharma arise.
"I must put it on record that 'Sanatan ka apmaan nahi sahega Hindustan' (India will not tolerate any insult to Sanatan Dharma)," he declared in a sharp rebuke.
Sonia Gandhi's Remarks on President Murmu Draw BJP's Ire
Switching gears, Prasad criticized Congress leader Sonia Gandhi for her remarks on President Droupadi Murmu, calling them disrespectful and unbecoming of a senior leader.Referring to a viral video in which Gandhi was heard commenting that the President looked "very tired" and "could hardly speak, poor thing" after delivering her address to Parliament, Prasad questioned the level of political discourse.
"She is the President of the country, holding the post with simplicity and grace. It is our moral and constitutional responsibility to respect her," he asserted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also strongly condemned the remarks, accusing the Congress’ "shahi parivar" (royal family) of insulting President Murmu, who comes from a tribal background, and demanded an apology.
Historical Reference: Patel vs. Nehru on Kashmir
In a pointed critique, Prasad also highlighted the role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in uniting India’s princely states, contrasting it with Jawaharlal Nehru’s handling of Kashmir."Sardar Patel passed away in 1950 but was only awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1991. He integrated all princely states except one—Kashmir, which was handled by Nehru. Eventually, Prime Minister Modi had to step in to take care of it. Today, elections are being held there," he remarked.
Prasad’s speech underscored the BJP’s stance on nationalism, religious sentiments, and historical accountability, setting the stage for a heated political debate as the Budget Session progresses.
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