New Delhi: Former Indian Supreme Court judge, Justice Markandey Katju, has voiced strong disapproval of the Indian government’s allocation of over Rs 9,000 crore for the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, questioning the prioritization of such religious events over public developmental needs.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, Katju, in his article for The Philox website, contended that the funds could have been more effectively utilized in constructing schools, hospitals, and other infrastructure projects that directly benefit the populace.

Katju further criticized the support for what he described as “superstitious” practices, referring to the belief in the purifying powers of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers. He argued that government endorsement of these practices contradicts Article 51A(h) of the Indian Constitution, which advocates for the development of scientific temper.

Additionally, Katju expressed concerns about the Kumbh Mela’s potential politicization by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), suggesting that the event might be leveraged to consolidate Hindu votes in anticipation of forthcoming elections, especially in Uttar Pradesh.

In his critique, Katju advocated for financing such religious gatherings through participant contributions rather than taxpayer money, reinforcing the secular principles enshrined in India’s constitution.