Patna, Feb. 16 -- Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad ignited controversy on Sunday after dismissing the Maha Kumbh as "faaltu" (meaningless) while commenting on the tragic New Delhi Railway Station stampede, media reports.

The incident, which occurred as passengers rushed to board Prayagraj-bound trains, claimed 18 lives and left many injured.

Addressing the surge of devotees traveling to the religious gathering and concerns over crowd management, Prasad remarked, "Kumbh ka kahan koi matlab hai. Faltu hai Kumbh (What meaning does Kumbh have? It is meaningless)."

While expressing condolences, he blamed railway mismanagement for the tragedy.

BJP, Hindu leaders slam Prasad's remarks

Prasad's statement drew sharp reactions from...