Press Report
NEW DELHI, INDIA, April 31, 2004: VIP’s have been asked not to come for a holy dip at the Kumbh Mela on the main bathing dates of April 5, April 22 and May 4, 2004. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Sadhvi Uma Bharati said this is because “requisite arrangements for their security cannot be made. The police and para military forces will be busy with crowd management of devotees and saints on these days.” “VIPs are, however, welcome if they make their own arrangements for personal security,” Ms. Bharati added. She assured journalists that preparations for the Kumbh Mela have been completed and Ujjain was all set to host this mega event. Over 2 million people are likely to have a bath in the holy river Shipra on the first two holy days and over 5 million people are expected to take a bath on May 4.