Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp critique against the Opposition on Sunday, accusing them of ridiculing religious customs and attempting to create societal divisions. His remarks come in the wake of controversy over criticism directed at the Maha Kumbh Mela by several opposition leaders.

Speaking at a public gathering in Chhattarpur, Madhya Pradesh, Modi denounced politicians who, according to him, mock faith and cultural traditions. Without naming individuals, he referred to them as those with a "slave mentality" who undermine India’s spiritual heritage.

“In recent times, we see a section of leaders who deride religious beliefs, divide communities, and even receive support from foreign entities trying to weaken our nation and its cultural roots. Such individuals, who harbor hatred towards Hindu traditions, have existed throughout history,” Modi asserted.

The Prime Minister further condemned those who, he claimed, target temples, festivals, and rituals with the intent of disrupting social harmony. “They dare to attack a faith that has always embraced progress and inclusivity. Their goal is to fragment society and weaken its unity,” he added.

During his speech, Modi also commended Bageshwar Dham’s spiritual leader, Dhirendra Shastri, for his efforts in fostering unity. Additionally, he announced the establishment of a cancer institute at the religious site, emphasizing that it would offer not just spiritual solace but also critical medical assistance.

“Dhirendra Shastri has long been spreading the message of unity across the country. Now, he has taken up another noble cause for society and humanity—the construction of a cancer institute. This means that alongside prayers and spiritual nourishment, people will now have access to healthcare here in Bageshwar Dham,” Modi stated.

The BJP has strongly criticized opposition figures for their remarks about the Maha Kumbh Mela, particularly targeting West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who described the event as ‘Mrityu Kumbh,’ referring to past stampede-related casualties in Prayagraj and New Delhi.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav also questioned the scale and financial expenditure of the Maha Kumbh, while Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge alleged that thousands had lost their lives in stampedes. Rajya Sabha MP and SP leader Jaya Bachchan went a step further, claiming that bodies were discarded in the Ganga, whereas RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav dismissed the religious gathering as insignificant.

Modi’s remarks signal the BJP’s aggressive stance against what it perceives as attempts to demean religious traditions, as the political discourse around the Maha Kumbh Mela continues to escalate.