Controversy Erupts Over Non-Hindu Entry Ban at Har-ki-Pauri in Haridwar

New Restrictions at Har-ki-Pauri

The Ganga Sabha, which oversees the Har-ki-Pauri ghat in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, has recently put up signs and banners that restrict entry for non-Hindus at this sacred site, according to reports from a local news outlet.

Nandan Kumar, the town commissioner for the Haridwar Municipal Corporation, acknowledged that the authorities are aware of the situation but have yet to issue any formal directives. He mentioned that actions would be taken once the state government provides guidance.

Nitin Gautam, the head of the Ganga Sabha, referenced a municipal bylaw from 1916, established under Congress leader Madan Mohan Malviya, which allegedly limits the presence and activities of non-Hindus in the Har-ki-Pauri vicinity.

Gautam stated, “With the rising number of visitors and reports of non-Hindus accessing this holy site, we are simply following these regulations,” as reported by the news outlet.

He further suggested that this regulation should apply to all ghats along the Ganga, emphasizing the need to maintain the sanctity of this historic Hindu pilgrimage location.

“We have previously requested a prohibition on non-Hindu entry not just at Har-ki-Pauri but across all 105 Ganga ghats in Haridwar to uphold the spiritual significance of this ancient site,” Gautam added.

On Thursday, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami indicated that the state government is considering the issue, recognizing Haridwar's profound historical, religious, and cultural importance.

“We are in discussions with all relevant parties, including Ganga Sabha members, religious organization representatives, and respected saints,” Dhami noted.

Several posters with "Entry of non Hindus prohibited" has come up at several places in and around Har-ki-Pauri in Haridwar. pic.twitter.com/3G9cyq4hrG

— Piyush Rai (@Benarasiyaa) January 16, 2026

The installation of these posters has sparked significant debate, with opposition parties labeling the action as unconstitutional.

Samajwadi Party leader ST Hasan remarked that the nation belongs to everyone, not just a single community, emphasizing that the Constitution allows all Indians to travel freely.

“Such discussions should cease as they foster division within our society,” Hasan stated.

Satpal Brahmachari, a former chairperson of the Haridwar municipal committee and Congress MP, questioned the practicality of such a sweeping ban in a diverse society.

Congress MLA Qazi Nizamuddin acknowledged the importance of respecting bylaws but criticized the politicization of the issue, suggesting that the ruling party is using it to distract from governance challenges.

In contrast, Uttarakhand BJP chief Mahendra Bhatt asserted that the sentiments of the Sanatan community regarding non-Hindu entry should be honored, claiming that the opposition's objections stem from appeasement politics.

“This rule has been informally established, and everyone should adhere to the traditions upheld by local religious leaders and priests,” Bhatt concluded.