Meerut: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a clear warning that any attempt to disrupt the Kanwar Yatra or compromise its sanctity will be dealt with strictly.
He emphasised that miscreants attempting to defame this holy journey under the guise of the Kanwar Yatra, especially through social media, will be identified and strict action taken against them.
Speaking at a press conference here on Sunday, the Chief Minister extended a heartfelt welcome to the devotees of Lord Shiva taking part in the sacred Kanwar Yatra across western Uttar Pradesh. Demonstrating respect for their faith and dedication, he personally showered flowers on the Kanwariyas on the streets of Meerut while paying similar tribute from a helicopter in other districts.
CM Yogi said. “Lakhs of Shiva bhakts from across the country are collecting the holy waters of the Ganga from Haridwar to perform Jalabhishek at revered temples like Baba Aughadnath, Pura Mahadev, and Dudheshwarnath. It is heartening to see enthusiastic participation from people of all age groups youth, women, children, and the elderly, creating a beautiful expression of social harmony.”
The Chief Minister underscored that while most devotees uphold the sanctity of the Yatra, some anti-social elements are conspiring to malign it.
“It is the responsibility of every Kanwar Sangh and every Shiv bhakt to expose such elements and immediately inform the authorities. The entire Yatra route is under CCTV surveillance, and once the Yatra concludes, strict action will be taken against those identified. Their posters will also be displayed publicly,” he stated.
Highlighting the extensive preparations made for the smooth conduct of the Yatra, CM Yogi said that the government, along with the administration, voluntary organisations, and religious institutions, has ensured comprehensive arrangements for the comfort and safety of the devotees. “From pandals and welcome camps to provisions for drinking water, first aid, and rest areas, every effort has been made to make this Yatra hassle-free,” he said.
The Chief Minister also urged devotees to maintain cleanliness during the pilgrimage. “Do not litter roads, intersections, or public places. The dignity of this sacred journey must be preserved. Shiv bhakts should walk with a spirit of public welfare and remain mindful of not causing inconvenience to others,” he appealed.
Taking a swipe at previous governments, CM Yogi remarked that before 2017, such sacred pilgrimages were neither supported nor respected; they were obstructed. “Today, with a government that values and protects faith, it is the collective duty of all devotees to carry forward this tradition with peace and respect,” he said.
CM Yogi called for cooperation in preserving the sanctity of the Yatra. “If anyone receives information about any mischief-makers, they should inform the administration instead of taking the law into their own hands. This Yatra is a symbol of devotion and harmony. Lord Shiva is the god of universal welfare, and his blessings are for all. It is our shared responsibility to keep this divine journey free from violence and disorder.”
