Religious Controversy Erupts: Non-Hindus Barred from Uttarakhand Shrines

The Uttarakhand temple controversy intensifies with a ban on non-Hindus from entering sacred sites like Gangotri Dham. Congress criticizes the BJP for politicizing the issue, questioning the state’s ability to manage religious sites. Religious leaders argue the ban protects spiritual integrity, sparking broader religious and political debates.

In a move attracting widespread criticism and debate, the temple committee of Gangotri Dham in Uttarakhand has decided to prohibit non-Hindus from entering the sacred shrine. This decision has prompted a sharp response from Ganesh Godiyal, President of the Uttarakhand Pradesh Congress Committee, who accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of politicizing religious sites.

Godiyal, speaking to ANI, expressed concern about the motives behind the ban, questioning the government's ability to secure religious sites and asserting that faith should not be limited by such restrictive measures. His comments come amidst growing controversy over the temple committee's unanimous resolution and similar proposals for other sacred shrines.

Further stirring the debate, Hemant Dwivedi, Chairman of the Shri Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee, supported the ban, suggesting that these shrines are not intended as tourist destinations but are central to Sanatan Hindu traditions. The controversy raises fundamental questions about religious rights and the management of spiritual sites in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)