Hindu groups demand restrictions on Muslims, while others advocate for inclusivity and a strong verification process
NEW DELHI – The Char Dham Yatra, a revered pilgrimage that sees thousands of Hindus journeying to the Kedarnath, Badrinath, Yamunotri, and Gangotri shrines, commenced on Wednesday (30 April). However, this year’s Yatra has also sparked controversy, particularly surrounding the entry of Muslims into these revered sites.
As the pilgrims make their way to Rishikesh and beyond, a faction of Hindu groups has raised concerns over the participation of non-Hindus, particularly Muslims, in the Yatra. These groups argue that Muslim pilgrims could potentially disrupt the sanctity and peace of these religious spaces, citing past incidents such as the Pahalgam controversy.
One local Hindu leader, affiliated with the group “Hindu Jagran Manch,” stated, “The entry of people who do not respect Hindu culture or disturb the peace in these religious sites should be stopped. We cannot allow this to continue.” Such calls for a ban on Muslim participation have gained traction, with some even going as far as to demand that the horsemen, often from the Muslim community, be replaced with locals who adhere to Hindu traditions.
Amidst the controversy, another debate has emerged concerning the business opportunities in the Char Dham. Some locals have voiced their concerns about outsiders, particularly Muslims, dominating businesses such as hotels, horse-drawn carriages, and mule services. These businesses are crucial to the livelihood of the region’s residents, and many locals are unhappy with the influx of outsiders taking up these roles.
An individual from Tehri, who preferred to remain anonymous, shared, “We have seen how outsiders are monopolising the businesses in Kedarnath. Local youth are left without work, and this has been an ongoing issue. The government should prioritise locals for these services.” Local Hindus also believe that the government should assist unemployed youth in securing loans for their businesses, particularly for mule and horse services.
On the other hand, members of the Muslim community in Uttarakhand have strongly opposed the calls for a ban on Muslim entry into the Char Dham Yatra. They have criticised such demands as both discriminatory and damaging to India’s centuries-old tradition of religious tolerance.
A prominent member of the Muslim community, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, “India is a land of Ganga-Jamuni culture. We have always lived together, respecting each other’s faith. Statements like these undermine the very essence of our unity and brotherhood.”
They further emphasised that while the government should ensure proper verification of all visitors, including Muslims, at religious sites, banning Muslims outright would be a violation of the country’s secular values. “We must not let the political agenda of a few overshadow the rich tradition of coexistence that India is known for,” the community member added.
The controversy has also drawn reactions from political figures and religious leaders. Sadhvi Prachi, a prominent Hindutva leader, publicly supported the calls for a ban on Muslims in Char Dham. Her statements have received backing from Kalki Peethadheeshwar Acharya Pramod Krishnan, who also expressed support for the exclusion of Muslims from the pilgrimage.
Speaking in Moradabad, Acharya Pramod Krishnan not only backed Sadhvi Prachi’s comments but also launched a scathing attack on several political leaders, including Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav. He remarked, “Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav have aligned themselves with those who do not respect India’s core values. They secretly support Pakistan, which is evident in their actions.”
Krishnan further elaborated on his views regarding religious inclusivity, stating, “Every person living in India is a Sanatani. God belongs to everyone and everyone belongs to God. Only those who have faith in the temples and holy places should go. If someone does not have that faith, they should stay away.”
However, many within the Muslim community view these statements with deep concern. They argue that such calls for exclusion are rooted in intolerance and do not reflect the true spirit of India, where all religions are respected and embraced. As one Muslim scholar from Uttarakhand expressed, “Religious spaces should be open to all, irrespective of their faith, as long as they come with respect. The core of Hinduism itself teaches respect for all people, and we must uphold that tradition.”
As the Char Dham Yatra continues, the demand for action by the government has grown louder. Hindu organisations insist that entry should be restricted to those who adhere to Hindu beliefs, while others call for a fair verification system for all pilgrims, irrespective of their faith.
The state government is yet to respond to these demands, and it remains to be seen whether any action will be taken to address the concerns of both communities. However, many argue that any attempt to restrict entry based on religion would set a dangerous precedent and undermine the inclusive spirit of the Yatra.
The Char Dham Yatra has long been a symbol of religious tolerance and unity, and many fear that the current controversy could tarnish this tradition. As the Yatra progresses, it remains to be seen whether peace and unity will prevail or if religious divisions will deepen further. The call for inclusivity and respect for all faiths is louder than ever, with hopes that the sacredness of Char Dham will be preserved for all devotees, regardless of their religious background.
