Raj Thackeray Criticizes Ganga Cleanliness and Questions Kumbh Rituals

The MNS chief challenges faith-based practices, highlighting India's river pollution and decades of unfulfilled cleanup promises.

Raj Thackeray, leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), voiced concerns over the cleanliness of the Ganga River during his party's 19th foundation day event in Pune.
Thackeray criticized successive Indian governments for failing to fulfill promises of cleaning the Ganga, dating back to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi's tenure.
He questioned the tradition of taking a holy dip during the Kumbh Mela, suggesting it reflects blind faith rather than rational thinking.
Thackeray compared India's polluted rivers to cleaner rivers in foreign countries, emphasizing the need for improved waste management systems.
His remarks have drawn criticism from religious groups and political opponents, who argue they disrespect Hindu traditions, while supporters defend his focus on environmental issues.