Maha Kumbh Mela Land Ownership Claimed by Waqf Board
As preparations for the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj reach their final stages, a fresh controversy has surfaced regarding the ownership of the land designated for this grand religious event. Local Muslims in Prayagraj have claimed that portions of the land where the Maha Kumbh Mela is set to take place, including areas designated for Akhadas, belong to the Waqf Board. This claim has sparked heated debates and drawn widespread attention.
#WATCH | “The truth is that Prayagraj Kumbh is very ancient. Islam did not even exist back then…He doesn’t know the history of Kumbh. That is why he is saying that this is being held on Waqf land, this is not true..,” says Chief Priest of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, Acharya… pic.twitter.com/jEv9QUWuKq
— ANI (@ANI) January 5, 2025
According to the allegations, approximately 54 bighas of land in the Jhunsi area, where several Akhadas and Kumbh facilities are located, are Waqf properties. Representatives of the Waqf Board have asserted that access to these lands cannot be restricted, as they are under its jurisdiction.
Significance of the Maha Kumbh Mela
The Maha Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years, is a deeply revered event for millions of Sanatan Dharma followers globally. It brings together saints, seers, and pilgrims at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Sarasvati rivers. This year’s event, scheduled from January 13 to February 26, will feature key bathing rituals, including the Shahi Snan on January 14 (Makar Sankranti), January 29 (Mauni Amavasya), and February 3 (Basant Panchami).
The Kumbh Mela site spans 25 sectors, with 14 located in the Jhunsi area, approximately 9 kilometers from central Prayagraj.
Waqf Board Claims Extend Beyond Kumbh Land
Adding to the controversy, some local Muslims have also alleged that the K.C. Pant Institute in Prayagraj, which now houses the Kumbh archive center, is also Waqf property. These assertions have further fueled the ongoing debate as preparations intensify for one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
Security Measures and Technological Upgrades for the Event
Amid the brewing controversy, authorities are prioritizing robust security measures to ensure a smooth and safe experience for the expected influx of crores of pilgrims. Senior officials have implemented advanced systems, including automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology for real-time vehicle verification and an anti-drone system to monitor unauthorized aerial activities.
Additionally, underwater cameras, speedboats, and water police personnel have been deployed to ensure safety along the riverbanks. Mock drills by the National and State Disaster Response Forces (NDRF and SDRF) are underway to assess emergency response times.
Uttar Pradesh DGP Prashant Kumar highlighted these arrangements during a site inspection, emphasizing measures like extending ghat lengths and ensuring efficient crowd management at bathing sites. He noted the inclusion of women ATS commandos in mock drills, underscoring the comprehensive security approach.
A Controversy Amidst Spiritual Celebration
The Maha Kumbh Mela is expected to draw millions of devotees, making it a significant spiritual and cultural event. However, the land ownership dispute involving the Waqf Board adds a layer of complexity to this grand gathering. While the event’s preparations continue unabated, authorities and stakeholders are urged to address these claims to ensure the focus remains on the spiritual and cultural essence of the festival.
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