Kumbh symbol of rising India, says Modi in Parl

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday described the success of Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj as a shining example of ‘Sabka Prayaas’, showcasing India’s grandeur to the world.

Making an impromptu statement in the Lok Sabha, Modi praised the efforts behind the event, saying, “The success of Maha Kumbh reflects the spirit of a rising India. Several people contributed to this achievement. I thank all the ‘karm yogis’ of the government and society.”

However, the opposition, led by the Congress, objected to the Prime Minister’s unscheduled speech and demanded to know under which rule he was allowed to make the statement without prior intimation. Speaker Om Birla later clarified that Rule 372 permits the PM and ministers to make statements in the House.

When Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi attempted to respond, he was not allowed to speak, prompting opposition MPs to storm the well of the House, chanting slogans such as “Tanashahi nahin chalegi!” (Dictatorship won’t be tolerated) and “Dramabaazi band karo!” (Stop theatrics). The uproar led to a brief adjournment of proceedings.

Both Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah immediately left the House after the former’s statement ended, leading to opposition’s protests.

Later while speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Gandhi said the PM should have paid homage to those who lost their lives in the Kumbh stampede. He also stressed that the youth attending the Kumbh need employment, urging Modi to focus on job creation.

The Prime Minister emphasised that amid global challenges, with wars in the Middle East and Europe creating a chasm between nations, the “show of unity is our great strength”.

However, the opposition parties slammed the UP government over poor hygiene management, citing a CPCB report that found dangerously high levels of faecal coliform bacteria in the Kumbh waters.