Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Reviews Security Measures Ahead of Kanwar Yatra
Preparations for the Upcoming Kanwar Yatra
As the month of Sawan approaches, the Kanwar Yatra is set to commence. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath convened a high-level review meeting with senior officials late Wednesday to ensure robust law and order, a harmonious environment, and adequate public facilities for the upcoming festivals. The meeting included extensive discussions with police commissioners, divisional commissioners, district magistrates, and senior superintendents of police from across the state.
The Chief Minister emphasized that all religious events should be conducted with reverence, safety, and social harmony, urging the administrative machinery to operate with sensitivity and vigilance.
Significant Dates and Events
The holy month of Shravan will be observed from July 11 to August 9
According to a statement, the Chief Minister noted that the holy month of Shravan will last from July 11 to August 9, during which the Kanwar Yatra, Shravan Shivratri, Nag Panchami, and Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated. Additionally, the Jagannath Rath Yatra is expected to take place from June 27 to July 8, along with Muharram festivities from June 27 to July 6-7.
He instructed that this period is particularly sensitive concerning law and order, healthcare, sanitation, education, and disaster management, urging all relevant departments and district administrations to work responsibly in coordination.
Guidelines for a Peaceful Kanwar Yatra
Special instructions for the peaceful and dignified conduct of the Kanwar Yatra
The Chief Minister remarked that the yatra symbolizes faith, discipline, and joy. Districts bordering Uttarakhand, including Ghaziabad, Meerut, Bareilly, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Kashi, Barabanki, and Basti, must exercise heightened vigilance. Continuous inter-state coordination is essential.
He stated that the sound from DJs, drums, and music along the yatra route must adhere to set standards. Loud noises, provocative slogans, and any deviation from traditional routes will not be tolerated.
Protection of Vulnerable Communities
Destruction of shelters for the poor will not be tolerated
He firmly stated that cutting down trees, demolishing slums, or destroying shelters for the poor for any procession is unacceptable. The Chief Minister clarified that the display of weapons and the political use of religious symbols during religious journeys are elements that disrupt harmony and must be strictly prohibited.
He added that social media should be closely monitored, and drone surveillance should be implemented if necessary.
Vigilance Across All Districts
All districts instructed to remain alert
The Chief Minister pointed out that the Kanwar Yatra attracts a large number of devotees, raising concerns about the potential infiltration of disruptive elements disguised among them. He directed all districts to maintain vigilance, ensuring local administration communicates with Kanwar associations and reviews all arrangements in advance.
Respect for Devotees' Religious Sentiments
Respect for the religious sentiments of devotees is paramount
He reiterated that the respect for devotees' religious sentiments is of utmost importance, but no mischievous elements should be given an opportunity. Prioritizing the convenience of devotees, the Chief Minister instructed that there should be no sale of meat or similar items along the yatra routes. Proper arrangements for cleanliness, lighting, drinking water, toilets, and first aid must be ensured. Immediate repairs of dilapidated electric poles and hanging wires are necessary, and organizations setting up camps should be verified to operate public service centers.
Clear Directives for Muharram Events
Chief Minister issues clear directives for Muharram events
The Chief Minister expressed concern over complaints regarding the sale of food at prices exceeding the set rates, urging district magistrates to conduct surprise inspections and take strict action against offenders. He also provided clear instructions for Muharram events, stating that all arrangements should be made this year, learning from past accidents. Dialogue with peace committees and organizing committees is essential to ensure that programs are conducted peacefully along traditional routes.
He instructed the administration to act promptly and lawfully without waiting for orders from the government.