Says “Not a Very Big Incident” as Toll Rises to 30, Congress Slams BJP MP
Prayagraj, February 5, 2025 – BJP MP Hema Malini has drawn criticism for downplaying the Maha Kumbh stampede, which claimed 30 lives and left over 60 injured. The veteran actress-turned-politician, who took a “very nice bath” at the Triveni Sangam last week, remarked that the incident was being “exaggerated” and praised the Uttar Pradesh government for its handling of the event.
“…It was not a very big incident. I don’t know how big it was, but it is being exaggerated,” she said, lauding Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s administration for a “very well-managed” religious gathering. She also seemed to excuse the tragedy, saying, “So many people are coming… it is very difficult to manage.”
Her remarks invited a sharp rebuttal from Congress MP Tariq Anwar, who accused the BJP of ignoring the plight of victims.
“When she visited, she was given VIP treatment. The police and administration focused on VIPs instead of ensuring safety for common people. If she says this is not a big issue, it is a mockery of the victims,” Anwar stated.
The opposition has also accused the UP government of underreporting the actual death toll, alleging a cover-up. Despite the controversy, Hema Malini dismissed the criticism, saying, “The opposition will say what they want… it is their job to say wrong things.”
The Maha Kumbh, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, continues in Prayagraj amid heightened security concerns following the tragic incident.
