UP CM orders strict action against those attempting to defile Kanwar Yatra

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday reviewed the preparations for the upcoming Kanwar Yatra including an a comprehensive aerial survey of the entire yatra route from Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad to Bijnor.

During the inspection, he issued clear and strict instructions to officials to ensure seamless arrangements, security of devotees, and full respect for their religious sentiments, according to an official statement.

The CM placed special emphasis on maintaining the sanctity of the yatra, ensuring that the faith and enthusiasm of lakhs of devotees remain undisturbed.

"He directed officials to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards those attempting to defile food items or engage in similar disrespectful acts. He stressed that those involved in such actions must face the strictest punishment so that the sacred nature of the Kanwar Yatra is not compromised," it said.

The CM "clearly stated" that no individual causing any kind of disorder or disruption during the yatra should be spared. The environment of the yatra "must remain peaceful" and well-organised at all times, it added.

Placing "utmost priority" on the convenience of devotees, the Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure comprehensive arrangements for tents, food, and other essential facilities along the route.

He also directed that cleanliness, electricity, and lighting arrangements along the Kanwar path be of the highest standard.

"Every effort must be made to ensure the yatra is completed smoothly and without incident," the CM was quoted as saying.

He also asked officials to guarantee the availability of proper rest areas and clean drinking water, keeping the needs of devotees in mind.

Further, he underlined the importance of involving voluntary organisations and social groups to strengthen these arrangements.

Kanwar Yatra is an annual pilgrimage undertaken on foot by devotees of Lord Shiva who fetch waters from the Ganga river and offer it to the deity during the auspicious Hindu month of Shravan.

Meanwhile, following the aerial survey of the Kanwar Yatra route, he travelled to Hur Nangla village in the Nagina area of Bijnor to offer condolences on the demise of Bhagwati Devi, mother of BJP State General Secretary (Org) Dharampal Singh.

Bhagwati Devi passed away on Saturday night at the age of 95, according to the statement.

The Chief Minister met the bereaved family, offered his sympathies, and paid tribute to the departed soul, it added.

Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, along with BJP State President Bhupendra Chaudhary, had earlier attended the last rites of Bhagwati Devi at Ganga Barrage Ghat.