UP CM has big heart, won’t mind cancellation of Kanwar Yatra: Uttarakhand minister

Dehradun, July 14

Uttarakhand minister Subodh Uniyal on Wednesday said Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Adityanath has a “big heart” and he will not mind his government’s decision of cancelling the Kanwar Yatra amid fears of the third Covid wave.

“We should have faith in religion but that doesn’t mean we can play with lives. The IMA had warned of a third wave. Even the prime minister had expressed concern over it. The decision to cancel Kanwar Yatra has been taken in the larger public interest,” Uniyal who is also the state government’s official spokesman told reporters here.

SC takes note of UP govt’s decision to allow ‘Kanwar Yatra’, issues notice to state, Centre

Third Covid wave inevitable; pilgrimage, tourism can wait: IMA

When asked whether the decision will go down well with the UP chief minister who is in favour of organising the yatra with minimum participation of “kanwariyas” and strict implementation of the Covid protocol, Uniyal said, “Yogiji has a big heart. He will not mind our decision”.

 “The state government is requesting not only the UP government but governments of all neighbouring states from where Kanwariyas pour into Haridwar in large numbers during the yatra to stop them at places from where they originate,” he said.

‘Kanwar Yatra’ cancelled; Chandigarh Police issue advisory

Uniyal also said the state government will reconsider its decision on the Devasthanam Board.

Replying to a question, the minister said the state government has made it clear that there will be a rethink on the board.

CM Yogi gives nod for ‘Kanwar yatra’ in UP

Char Dham priests have been opposing the board since its inception, saying it is an infringement of their rights.

The board, which controls the management of 51 temples, was constituted when Trivendra Singh Rawat was the state’s chief minister. — PTI