Call for Smoke-Free Sanctity: Activist Urges Tobacco Ban at Kedarnath

Environment activist Amit Gupta urged a total tobacco ban at the Kedarnath temple and pilgrimage route. Highlighting rule violations and environmental harm, he called for strict penalties and awareness initiatives to ensure cleanliness and sanctity at this revered site. Gupta's RTI revealed ongoing tobacco sales despite existing regulations.

Amit Gupta, a Noida-based environment activist, called for a complete ban on tobacco products at the sacred Kedarnath temple and its pilgrimage route. He highlighted the ongoing sale of cigarettes and gutkha, emphasizing the environmental and spiritual harm they inflict.

In a formal communication to Uttarakhand's chief secretary, Gupta presented alarming findings from his RTI query—the rampant sale of tobacco products continues unchecked, with minimal fines distributed to violators. The activist criticized the ineffectiveness of current rules, urging stricter enforcement and penalties.

Gupta stressed the ecological sensitivity of the region and the necessity to maintain its sanctified atmosphere. He advocated for robust awareness campaigns for pilgrims and local communities, ensuring the preservation of Kedarnath's purity for future generations.

(With inputs from agencies.)