A case has been filed against Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Afzal Ansari for his controversial remarks on the ongoing Maha Kumbh. The complaint claims that his statements not only disrespected the dignity of his position but also hurt the religious sentiments of Hindus.
Ansari allegedly remarked on the belief that bathing at the Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati—washes away sins, suggesting that if every sinner took a holy dip at the Maha Kumbh, heaven would be full.
"It is believed that people's sins will be washed away by taking a holy dip at the Sangam during Maha Kumbh. Looking at the massive crowd, it seems now no one will be left in hell and heaven will be houseful," Mr Ansari said.
Additionally, he criticized the government for failing to provide an accurate death toll from the recent stampede at the Maha Kumbh. Official reports indicate that 30 people lost their lives and 60 others were injured in a pre-dawn stampede at the Sangam area last month.
The complaint against Mr. Ansari was lodged by former District Cooperative Bank President Dev Prakash Singh.
This is not the first time Mr. Ansari has sparked controversy with his remarks on religious practices. Previously, he commented on the use of cannabis at the Kumbh Mela, suggesting that saints and sadhus engaged in substance abuse—a statement that had already drawn sharp criticism from Hindu religious communities.
According to Ghazipur Superintendent of Police (SP) Dr. Iraj Raja, an FIR has been registered under Sections 299 and 353(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
He further claimed that during religious gatherings, particularly the Kumbh Mela, large quantities of cannabis are consumed. He alleged that even if a full goods train of cannabis were supplied to the event, it would still fall short of demand.
His remarks sparked a strong backlash from Hindu religious leaders and organizations, who accused him of maligning their traditions.
Following the uproar, Mr. Ansari issued an unconditional apology, clarifying that his remarks were intended to raise concerns about drug smuggling rather than to target religious practices.
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