Tue Jan 28 01:40:12 UTC 2025: ## Congress Leader Criticizes BJP’s Mahakumbh Participation, Sparking Political Row
**Mhow, Madhya Pradesh:** Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge has ignited a political firestorm by criticizing BJP leaders for their participation in the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, questioning the optics of their holy dips amid pressing national issues. Speaking at a rally in Mhow alongside Rahul Gandhi, Kharge suggested the BJP’s actions were performative, aimed at garnering publicity rather than genuine religious devotion.
“I don’t want to question anyone’s faith,” Kharge stated, “but while children starve and laborers struggle, these leaders are spending thousands of rupees competing for photo opportunities during the holy dip.” He questioned the efficacy of ritualistic cleansing in addressing poverty and inequality.
Kharge’s comments came on the same day Union Home Minister Amit Shah participated in the Mahakumbh’s holy dip. The BJP swiftly responded, with spokesperson Sambit Patra accusing the Congress of attacking the faith of millions of Hindus and exhibiting an “anti-Sanatan” mindset. Patra condemned Kharge’s remarks as disrespectful to the Mahakumbh and the Ganga river, challenging the Congress to apply the same criticism to other religious observances. He highlighted the Mahakumbh’s significance as a symbol of Hindu faith and questioned the appropriateness of Kharge’s critique. The ensuing debate promises to further polarize the political climate.
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