A controversy erupted during the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj after a statue of Samajwadi Party (SP) founder Mulayam Singh Yadav was installed at a camp set up by the Mulayam Singh Yadav Smriti Seva Sansthan in Sector 16. The statue, approximately two to three feet tall, was unveiled on Saturday by SP leader Mata Prasad Pandey, who stated that the camp was organized to spread Mulayam Singh’s thoughts and ideas. The statue, he clarified, would be moved to the SP party office after the event.
The installation faced strong criticism from sections of the religious community, particularly the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad. Its president, Mahant Ravindra Puri, accused Mulayam Singh Yadav of being “anti-Hindu” and “anti-Sanatan,” referencing his actions during the Ram temple movement. Puri questioned the timing and intent of placing the statue at the Maha Kumbh Mela, calling it an attempt to provoke seers and highlight contentious aspects of Mulayam Singh’s political legacy.
SP leader Pandey, however, defended the move, stating it was symbolic and intended to honor the party founder’s contributions. He invited pilgrims to visit the camp, adding that the initiative aimed to provide hospitality to attendees. The controversy underscores the sensitive interplay of politics and religion at one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings.