Opposition Demands Investigation into Boatman’s Earnings During Maha Kumbh
A day after the Uttar Pradesh government claimed that boatman Pintu Mahara earned a staggering Rs 30 crore during the Maha Kumbh, the opposition, including the Samajwadi Party, has called for an investigation into these claims. They have also raised concerns regarding Mahara’s alleged criminal background.
In a post on X, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav emphasized the need for transparency regarding Mahara’s reported income, questioning how a single family could generate such significant wealth from ferrying devotees. “If a family has really earned Rs 30 crore during Maha Kumbh, then tell how much GST was received,” he stated, challenging the government to investigate further.
Concerns Over Tax Payments
UP Congress chief Ajay Rai echoed similar sentiments, questioning the legitimacy of the reported earnings and whether appropriate taxes, including GST, were paid. “Doesn’t it show that the devotees were fleeced?” Rai asked, pointing to the improbability of such profits under government-prescribed rates.
As the controversy unfolds, Vaibhav Singh, Station House Officer of Naini police station, confirmed that Mahara has a criminal record, stating that his family has a history of illegal activities, including extortion and illegal liquor production.
Government’s Stance
The UP government defended its claims, stating that Mahara expanded his fleet from 60 to 130 boats in anticipation of a massive influx of devotees. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath remarked in the assembly that Mahara’s family made a profit of Rs 30 crore over the 45-day period, highlighting the success of this boatman’s enterprise.
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