Uttarakhand Cabinet Bans Dhams Name Misuse, Proposes Hindu Studies Centre

The Uttarakhand Cabinet has decided to enforce strict legal measures to prevent misuse of names of the four Dhams -- Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, Yamunotri -- and other major temples. The decision aims to curb confusion and respect local traditions. Additionally, a 'Centre for Hindu Studies' will be set up at Doon University.

The Uttarakhand Cabinet on Thursday decided to implement strict legal provisions to stop the use of names similar to the four Dhams within the state. This includes Badrinath and Kedarnath, among others. Concerns were raised about trusts or committees forming with these sacred names, leading to public confusion and potential local outrage.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who chaired the meeting, highlighted that such practices hurt local traditions and religious beliefs. The state aims to preserve these traditions by legally restricting the misuse of these names. This decision follows a recent controversy over a proposed replica of the Kedarnath temple in Delhi.

In addition to this decision, the cabinet approved the establishment of a 'Centre for Hindu Studies' at Doon University, set to commence from the next academic session, Secretary Shailesh Bagauli confirmed during a press briefing.