Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday condemned the circulation of “fake videos” and baseless allegations against Sanatan Dharma, the Ganga, India, and the Maha Kumbh.
He stated that such actions undermine the faith of millions of devotees who have participated in the sacred event in Prayagraj.
Addressing concerns about the water quality at the Maha Kumbh, CM Adityanath asserted that the Sangam water is safe not only for bathing but also for drinking.
He criticized what he called a deliberate attempt to tarnish the festival’s reputation following the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) report on the presence of faecal coliform bacteria.
On Monday, the CPCB informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that water samples from multiple locations in Prayagraj did not meet primary bathing quality standards due to elevated levels of faecal coliform.
This type of bacteria, originating from the intestines of warm-blooded animals and humans, is commonly used as an indicator of water contamination, potentially signifying the presence of harmful pathogens.
In response, CM Adityanath assured that all necessary measures have been implemented to maintain the water’s purity. “All pipes and drains near the Sangam have been sealed, and only purified water is being released,” he stated.
The Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board is continuously monitoring the water to ensure its quality. According to the latest reports, the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) level near Sangam is below three, while Dissolved Oxygen (DO) levels are around 8-9, indicating good water quality.
The Chief Minister further clarified that faecal coliform levels in Prayagraj remain within permissible limits, at less than 2,500 MPN per 100 ml.
The NGT has also noted that faecal waste levels are below 2,000 MPN per 100 ml. Adityanath dismissed the contamination claims as an attempt to malign the Maha Kumbh’s image.
CM Adityanath Addresses Maha Kumbh Stampede
Speaking in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, CM Adityanath emphasized that the Maha Kumbh is not organized by any single political party or organization but is a collective societal event. He stated that the government’s role is that of a facilitator, ensuring the festival’s smooth execution.
Calling it a privilege to be associated with the Maha Kumbh of the century, he noted that the event has received global recognition, despite attempts to spread misinformation.
With seven days remaining in the festival, more than 56 crore devotees have taken a holy dip in the sacred waters, according to official data.
Expressing condolences over the January 29 stampede at the Maha Kumbh, CM Adityanath assured support to the victims’ families, including those who lost loved ones in road accidents while traveling to the event.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing assistance but questioned the appropriateness of politicizing the tragedy.
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