As the Chardham Yatra unfolds in Uttarakhand, the state government has instituted a ban on mobile phone usage within a 50-meter radius of the revered Kedarnath temple. This measure is aimed at ensuring an uninterrupted and reverential darshan experience for devotees.
Strict Enforcement and Penalties: Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Radha Raturi has underscored the stringent enforcement of this prohibition, warning of severe consequences for violators. The decision comes in response to disruptions caused by mobile phone usage within the temple premises, emphasizing the imperative of upholding the sanctity of the sacred space.
Instructions to District Authorities: In a bid to ensure the ban’s effective implementation, Chief Secretary Raturi has issued directives to all District Magistrates and law enforcement agencies. Their mandate includes enforcing the restriction rigorously to preserve the tranquility of the temple surroundings and enhance the spiritual ambiance for pilgrims.
Devotees Urged to Comply: The Uttarakhand government’s directive carries a profound call for cooperation from devotees. Adhering to the mobile phone ban within the specified vicinity of the temple is not merely a legal obligation but a demonstration of reverence and respect for the sacred site’s sanctity.
New Guidelines for Char Dham Yatra: In tandem with this initiative, the Uttarakhand government has unveiled fresh guidelines for the ongoing Char Dham Yatra, emphasizing the necessity for devotee registration and exercising restraint throughout the pilgrimage journey.
Registration Requirement and Yatra Commencement: Registration has been mandated for all pilgrims embarking on the revered Char Dham Yatra. The pilgrimage commenced with the auspicious opening of the Kedarnath temple on May 1, marked by traditional ceremonies and devotional hymns. Subsequently, the portals of the Yamunotri and Gangotri Dham were unlocked on May 10, followed by the Badrinath shrine on May 12.
Online Registration and Police Operations: Online registration facilities have been made available on the tourism department’s portal, streamlining the pilgrimage process for devotees. To ensure a safe and orderly journey, Uttarakhand police have initiated ‘Operation Maryada,’ urging pilgrims to refrain from any conduct that may compromise the pilgrimage’s decorum and sanctity.
Appeal for Cooperation and Respect: Uttarakhand’s Director General of Police, Abhinav Kumar, has made a poignant appeal to all stakeholders to exhibit utmost cooperation and reverence during the pilgrimage. VIP visits for Char Dham Darshan have been temporarily suspended until May 31 to manage the influx of devotees effectively.
Significance of Char Dham Yatra: Embedded in Hindu tradition and spirituality, the Char Dham Yatra holds profound significance, symbolizing a journey towards spiritual awakening and divine blessings. For devotees, embarking on this sacred pilgrimage represents a quest for spiritual liberation and communion with the divine.
