Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has dismissed reports suggesting that water at several locations during the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj contained faecal bacteria beyond permissible limits for safe bathing.

He asserted that the water at the Sangam—the sacred confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati—is "fit for drinking."

His statement comes in response to findings presented before the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Monday, which indicated high levels of faecal and total coliform at various sites during the religious gathering.

The NGT hearing was based on allegations that untreated sewage had been discharged into the Ganga and Yamuna in Prayagraj.

Addressing the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Adityanath strongly condemned what he called "misinformation" being spread about the Maha Kumbh and Sanatana Dharma.

"While we are engaged in discussions here, over 56.25 crore devotees have already taken their holy dip in Prayagraj. Spreading baseless allegations or fake videos against Sanatana Dharma, Maa Ganga, India, or the Maha Kumbh means playing with the faith of these 56 crore people," he said.

The ongoing Maha Kumbh has witnessed a massive turnout of pilgrims. Despite environmental concerns, the UP government maintains that it has taken adequate measures to ensure clean and safe water for devotees.