Kedarnath MLA demands ban on ‘non-Hindus’ from Char Dham Yatra region

BJP MLA demands ban on 'non-Hindus' near Kedarnath temple, sparking controversy; Congress criticizes for sensationalism.

Alleging that people of a certain community are indulging in anti-social activities with an aim to defame the revered Kedarnath temple in Uttarakhand, Bharatiya Janata Party legislator from Kedarnath constituency, Asha Nautiyal, demanded a ban on entry of ‘non-Hindus’ from the temple as well as around the yatra region.

The Opposition Congress mocked the ruling BJP leaders for making “provocative” statements to gain popularity.

Speaking to the media, Ms. Nautiyal, who was elected as Kedarnath MLA in the bypolls held in October last year, said that the residents of her constituency, which houses one of the most famous Shiva temples, have raised concerns over entry of ‘non-Hindus’ near the temple and in the region during the yatra season.

“The concerns were raised during the recently held meeting with locals to review the preparations of the Char Dham yatra, which is starting form the first week of May. The local businessmen pointed out that non-Hindus are deliberately doing certain activities, which are hurting the sentiments of Hindu pilgrims. They demanded a check on it. Since I am an MLA, I have the responsibility to raise this issue with the government so that the sanity of the yatra remains intact,” she said.

According to sources, local businessmen had complained about sales of non-vegetarian food and liquor on the route of the Kedarnath temple. Some have also pointed out recent incidents in which women and girls of the region have allegedly eloped with people of another community that makes a living in the region for business purposes during yatra season.

“These incidents have also sparked communal tension in the area, which is why we want the entry of non-Hindus to be banned in the region,” said a businessman from Sonprayag.

The recently rolled out excise policy in Uttarakhand already bans sale of liquor near religious places.