Debate Heats Up Over Entry Restrictions at Haridwar's Sacred Ghats

The Ganga Sabha demands a ban on non-Hindus at Haridwar's Ganga ghats during Kumbh, urging government, institutions, and media to enforce the restriction. President Nitin Gautam emphasizes religious traditions and calls for vigilance. Uttarakhand government considers the demand amid rising tensions.

Amid increasing demands for a ban on the entry of non-Hindus at Haridwar's Ganga ghats during the Kumbh Mela, the Ganga Sabha is pressing for stricter enforcement of the rule. It insists this restriction should apply to government departments, institutions, and media personnel.

Nitin Gautam, president of the Ganga Sabha, which manages Har Ki Pauri and nearby ghats, has made a strong appeal to Haridwar's district information officer and other officials. Gautam argues that the sanctity and religious traditions tied to Ganga Maa should be safeguarded, citing bylaws from 1916 that restrict non-Hindu access to the area.

The Ganga Sabha highlighted a recent incident involving individuals dressed as Arab sheikhs, accusing them of trying to disrupt the area's atmosphere. The Sabha is pushing for signs enforcing the prohibition and is demanding vigilance from the administration, with Uttarakhand's government allegedly taking the demand seriously.