
Preparations for the Mahakumbh Mela 2025 have sparked controversy after it was announced that seers attending the event will be required to show ID proofs. Additionally, in a significant move, place names written in Urdu are being replaced by their Hindi equivalents. There is also a growing push to ban food stalls run by non-Sanatani vendors during the Mela. This decision has caused an uproar, especially from minority communities, who argue that the new regulations discriminate against their religious practices.
The changes have been defended by the local administration as efforts to ensure the safety and sanctity of the event. Religious leaders from various Hindu sects have supported these moves, citing the need to preserve the tradition and spirituality of the Mahakumbh. With millions of devotees expected to attend, the government has also increased security measures, including ID verification, to prevent any disruptions during the massive religious gathering