New Delhi: In a speech delivered on the occasion of Sant Ravidas Jayanti in Ghazipur, Samajwadi Party MP Afzal Ansari made a series of statements that have sparked controversy. From questioning the Maha Kumbh arrangements to criticizing the country’s economic situation and advocating for the legalization of ganja, Ansari’s remarks have drawn mixed reactions.
Maha Kumbh and the ‘Path to Vaikunth’
Addressing the gathering, Ansari commented on the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela, stating that sins are being washed away, leading to a “Housefull” heaven, implying that no one would go to hell anymore. He used this metaphor to criticize the nation’s state, questioning whether India, which aspires to be a Vishwaguru (world leader), is truly prepared for such a role given its internal issues.
He also raised concerns about the stampede on January 29 at the Maha Kumbh, alleging that the actual number of casualties has not been disclosed. Expressing his disappointment over the handling of crowds, he pointed out that youths were seen breaking train windows, causing distress among women and children, while railway ticket collectors (TTs) were forced to remove their uniforms out of fear.
‘Vishwaguru or a Nation in Debt?’
Ansari didn’t hold back in his critique of the country’s economic condition. He highlighted that India’s national debt has exceeded ₹200 lakh crore, questioning whether the nation is progressing in proportion to its growing population. He also took a jibe at the political climate, stating that Indians celebrate when Donald Trump becomes the US President, but fail to focus on pressing national issues.
Further, he pointed out India’s declining performance in global infrastructure rankings, stating that the country’s port ranking has dropped to 85th place, and the rupee has weakened to ₹88 against the dollar.
‘Ganja Should Be Legalized’
Perhaps the most controversial statement from the MP was his demand for the legalization of ganja (cannabis). He argued that sadhus and saints smoke ganja as prasad, questioning why it remains illegal if it is widely used in religious settings. “Tell Yogi Baba to give ganja legal recognition,” he remarked, directly addressing Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath.
Ansari claimed that ganja is openly consumed in religious monasteries across Ghazipur and Lucknow, further strengthening his argument for its legalization. His remarks have sparked sharp debates, with some supporting the call for decriminalization, while others condemn it as an attack on religious practices.
More Controversial Statements
Apart from his remarks on the Maha Kumbh and economy, Ansari also took a dig at certain political and administrative actions:
On Encounters in UP: He stated that there is no objection to police encounters, but they should be conducted fairly, adding that the state’s leadership should not justify killings recklessly.
On Tirupati Balaji’s Laddu Controversy: He alleged that there was an attempt to transfer the temple’s prasad distribution contract to a Gujarat-based company, stirring further debate.
In light of his statements, a police FIR has reportedly been filed against Afzal Ansari, particularly over his remarks on ganja consumption in monasteries.
