Dhirendra Krishna Shastri, the Peethadhishwar of Bageshwar Dham, has expressed strong backing for the Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad's demand to restrict entry and shop allocations for non-Hindus at the forthcoming Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Shastri stated that “minorities should not be allowed entry or permitted to operate shops at the Mahakumbh,” echoing the position of the Akhara, particularly in relation to the Muslim community.

"The demand of the Akhara Parishad is absolutely correct. Shops should not be provided for non-Hindus in the Maha Kumbh. Apart from this, the entry of non-Hindus should also be banned. Why should those who do not believe in Ram or Sanatan Dharma be at the Triveni Sangam?" questioned Shastri.

Quoting a popular Bollywood song, he remarked, "Mere angne mein tumhara kya kaam hai," to emphasise that non-believers should not have a place in the Mahakumbh. He also referenced past incidents involving alleged “spitting incidents,” implying that the Mahakumbh should not accommodate those unfamiliar with Sanatan traditions, suggesting the possibility of a conspiracy by certain groups.

Swami Yatindranand Giri, the Mahamandaleshwar of the Juna Akhara, also expressed his support for the Akhara Parishad's demand.

He stated, “The Mahakumbh is a centre of Sanatan Hindu culture, where sacred rituals and Vedic practices uphold its sanctity.”  Giri called on the state government and Mela authorities to limit non-Hindu participation and business activities, cautioning that the Sant Samaj might boycott the event if their demands are not met. He suggested that shop permits should only be issued to individuals who provide complete identification with photographs.

The Mahakumbh is set to begin in Prayagraj on January 13, coinciding with Paush Poornima, and will conclude on February 26, during Mahashivratri. The Uttar Pradesh government announced on Sunday that drivers, boatmen, guides, and cart operators will be provided with special tracksuits tailored for each category.

"This preparation has been done keeping in mind that pilgrims can easily get the necessary services during the rush in the fair," Regional Tourism Officer Aparajita Singh said in a statement.