In response, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav seized upon Adityanath's remarks to critique the state's renaming policies. Yadav quipped, "Has the cricketer's name also been changed?" This comment alludes to the Bharatiya Janata Party government's initiative to rename locations with Mughal and colonial-era names since 2017, including the change from Allahabad to Prayagraj.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, a significant Hindu pilgrimage, has attracted millions of devotees to the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers. Despite its spiritual significance, the event has been marred by incidents, including a tragic stampede on January 29 that resulted in numerous fatalities. Critics have questioned the management and safety measures in place, especially concerning crowd control and the prioritization of VIP attendees over general pilgrims.
Yadav's critique extends beyond the renaming policies to encompass the overall handling of the festival. He has accused the BJP government of exploiting public sentiments and failing to ensure adequate safety and logistical arrangements for the massive influx of pilgrims. The opposition leader's remarks highlight the ongoing political discourse surrounding the intersection of cultural heritage, religious practices, and administrative decisions in Uttar Pradesh.