Uttarakhand: BJP MLA demands ban on ‘non-Hindus’ in Kedarnath Dham

Ahead of the commencement of the Chardham Yatra, BJP MLA from Kedarnath, Asha Nautiyal, on Sunday demanded a ban on those selling non-vegetarian food and liquor in Kedarnath Dham and alleged that “non-Hindus” are engaged in such activities to bring ill repute to the holy town.

In a video statement, Nautiyal said the issue was raised during a recent meeting with local hotel, dhaba owners, and horse-mule operators regarding Yatra preparations.

The Uttarakhand unit of the Congress strongly condemned her statement, terming it an attempt to spread hatred. Its senior vice president Suryakant Dhasmana said, “Be it Maha Kumbh, Holi, Jumme ki Namaz, or the Chardham Yatra, the BJP repeatedly targets the minority Muslim community to disrupt communal harmony. This is their national agenda.”

Nautiyal said that during the meeting, some people informed her that “non-Hindus” are engaged in selling non-vegetarian and liquor. “Those defaming the Dham must be banned,” she said.

The BJP MLA said that people from all over the country and the world come to visit Kedarnath and other Dhams of the state with devotion, so their faith should not be hurt.

She said that, as a public representative, it is her duty to highlight the concerns of locals and ensure that activities that can harm the repute of the holy town must be stopped.

Hitting back, the Congress leader said that the BJP is trying to divert attention from key issues like unemployment, inflation, and law and order.

Dhasmana urged the state government to ensure the smooth conduct of the Chardham Yatra and take strict action against anyone engaging in unlawful activities, regardless of religion or community.