Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav slammed the Uttar Pradesh government for what he described as “mismanagement” and delays in preparations for the upcoming Mahakumbh in Prayagraj. Offering his party’s help to ensure the smooth conduct of the mega religious event, Yadav highlighted various shortcomings in security arrangements and administrative planning.

In a video shared on microblogging platform X, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister raised concerns over inadequate security measures, neglect of local issues and poor administrative execution. He urged the BJP-led state government to fill these gaps urgently.

“This is the reality of the preparations for “Prayagraj Mahakumbh 2025” under the BJP government. The police work should have been completed long ago as security management cannot be left to the last moment,” Yadav said.

He also accused the government of neglecting the needs of Prayagraj residents, noting growing dissatisfaction with administrative priorities. “Residents of Prayagraj are wondering why the BJP was quick to remove the statue of Emperor ‘Mahadani’ Harshavardhan, but is showing no urgency in tackling critical administrative tasks,” Yadav remarked.

Yadav further highlighted the issues related to transport and mobility in and around the Mahakumbh region. “Alternative arrangements must be made to ensure that residents can move freely and manage emergencies during the event,” he stressed.

Reiterating his party’s commitment to the success of the event, Yadav said the Samajwadi Party is ready to step in where the government seems to have faltered. “We want the Mahakumbh to run smoothly while ensuring that Prayagraj remains functional for its residents,” he said.

Lashing out at the ruling BJP, Yadav alleged that party members would be more focused on “making money or planning for elections” than ensuring proper arrangements for the Mahakumbh. “If the government and administration fail, we are ready to deploy our dedicated party workers to assist in the preparations,” he added.

The Mahakumbh Mela 2025, one of the most important religious events in Hinduism, is scheduled to take place in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26. The event, which takes place every 12 years, is expected to attract millions of devotees from around the world.