Dehradun: A major decision has been taken regarding Uttarakhand’s sacred pilgrimage sites. The Shri Gangotri Temple Committee has announced a complete
ban on the entry of non‑Hindus into Gangotri Dham. This restriction will also apply to Mukhba, the winter residence of Goddess Ganga.
The move comes close on the heels of discussions about restricting entry of non‑Hindus at 105 ghats in Haridwar’s Kumbh area. Following this, the Badrinath‑Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC), which administers the Char Dham shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri along with 47 other temples, is considering a similar proposal. Sources say the proposal will soon be placed before the BKTC board and has the support of most stakeholders.
Ban at Gangotri
Suresh Semwal, chairman of the Shri Gangotri Temple Committee, confirmed that entry of non‑Hindus into the shrine will be completely prohibited. He emphasized that the decision is meant to protect the sanctity of the temple and its traditions.
Plans for Kedarnath and Badrinath
BKTC Chairman Hemant Dwivedi stated that a proposal to ban non‑Hindus from entering Kedarnath and Badrinath shrines, as well as all temples under the committee, will be presented in the upcoming board meeting. The proposal may extend to the entire Kedarnath valley and expand the notified boundary around Badrinath.
Demand for wider restrictions
Religious organizations have also urged the government to impose similar restrictions across the Kumbh Mela area in Haridwar. They argue that the Ardh Kumbh is a grand event linked to the faith of millions of Sanatan devotees, and policy‑level decisions are needed to maintain the sanctity of pilgrimage sites.
Dwivedi said that sacred ghats of the Ganga and major religious areas in Haridwar should be identified, and entry arrangements reconsidered from an administrative perspective. He indicated that a government‑level decision may be taken before the upcoming Ardh Kumbh.
Protecting Devbhoomi’s heritage
Referring to recent actions under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Dwivedi highlighted steps taken against illegal constructions in forest and mountain areas. He stressed that Uttarakhand, known as Devbhoomi, is home to many ancient temples and sacred rivers, and requires special protection for its religious heritage.
Sparked debate among devotees and locals
The proposal has sparked debate among devotees and locals. Supporters believe it will preserve the sanctity of the shrines, while critics argue it could limit inclusivity. The government is currently deliberating on the matter, and an official decision is expected soon.
For now, the ban at Gangotri Dham has already come into effect, while Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and 47 other temples await the outcome of the BKTC board’s decision.
