New Delhi/Lucknow/IBNS: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said the Hindu pilgrimage Maha Kumbh was "Mrityunjay Mahakumbh" in a counter to his West Bengal counterpart Mamata Banerjee's "Mrityu Kumbh" jibe.

Adityanath alleged the opposition parties from various states made remarks against Maha Kumbh as a part of their appeasement politics.

He said in an interview with Smita Prakash on ANI podcast, "...It was 'Mrityunjay Mahakumbh'...The government of West Bengal was scared to see this crowd. People at their railway stations and airports were eager to go to Prayagraj.

"Whether it is West Bengal govt, Congress, RJD or Samajwadi Party, whatever they have said about the Mahakumbh is an example of their appeasement politics and an attempt to insult the faith of the country..."

Mamata had called the Maha Kumbh, which took place from January 13-February 26, 2025, "Mrityu Kumbh" in response to the deadly stampede which occurred at the congregation which was held in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.

Speaking on the floor of the West Bengal Assembly, the Chief Minister, who was supported by several opposition leaders, had said, "Maha Kumbh has now turned into Mrityu Kumbh. I respect Maha Kumbh and Maa Ganga but your sole hype with no planning led to the loss of so many lives!"

Giving an update of the probe into the stampede that claimed several lives, Adityanath said the judicial commission was working as per the directions of the Allahabad High Court.

"There is a judicial commission, and it is working according to the directions given by Allahabad High Court and the Supreme Court. They are working on all the evidence and recording statements. We will take further action based on the findings in the report....," said the Chief Minister of the most populous Indian state.