New Delhi:
As the Maha Kumbh Mela prepares to commence in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26, a contentious debate has surfaced over the ownership of the land where the event is being held. Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Barelvi, president of the All India Muslim Jamat, has sparked the controversy by asserting that the Maha Kumbh Mela is taking place on 55 bighas of Waqf land.
Razvi Barelvi’s claims have not only highlighted the sensitive issue of land ownership but also called into question the inclusivity of the event. In a video message, he praised the Muslim community of Prayagraj for their tolerance in allowing the use of Waqf land for the Hindu religious gathering. However, he criticized the All India Akhara Parishad for their call to bar non-Hindus, including Muslims, from participating in the Kumbh Mela and setting up stalls in the area.
The cleric’s remarks have been met with strong opposition from Hindu spiritual leaders. Ravindra Puri Maharaj questioned Razvi Barelvi’s mental stability, suggesting that the land in question belongs to “Maa Ganga” and not to any specific religious group. Swami Deepankar expressed concern over the cleric’s statements, urging him to avoid making such claims, especially during a sacred time like the Kumbh Mela.
The BJP has also weighed in on the issue, with leader Amit Malviya linking the cleric’s claims to the ongoing debates surrounding the Waqf Amendment Bill. The bill, currently under review by a Joint Parliamentary Committee, aims to address issues of mismanagement, corruption, and encroachments on Waqf properties by introducing reforms such as digitization, stricter audits, and enhanced transparency.
The Maha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest religious gatherings, is expected to attract millions of devotees. The controversy surrounding the land use and participation rights underscores the complex and often contentious nature of religious coexistence in India. As preparations for the event intensify, authorities are also focusing on ensuring safety and security measures to manage the large crowds and prevent any potential conflicts.
