Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami on Tuesday directed officials to ensure all necessary arrangements and facilities for pilgrims undertaking Char Dham and Hemkund Sahib Yatra, while urging devotees and tourists to avoid paying attention to rumors or misinformation circulating on social media.
The Prime Minister, who chaired a high-level meeting at the Secretariat, said devotees and tourists visiting the state are welcome to Devbhumi Uttarakhand and appealed to them to enjoy their spiritual journey in the peaceful ambience of the Himalayan state.
Uttarakhand represents faith, culture and natural heritage, Dhami said, adding that maintaining harmony and ensuring safety and comfort of pilgrims remains the top priority of the state government.
Actions are underway in the Karnaprayag and Nagarasu incidents
Referring to the recent incidents reported in Karnaprayag and Nagarasu, the Chief Minister said the state government, administration and police are taking necessary action while looking into all aspects of the matter.
He added that action has already been taken against those found guilty during the investigation, and more stringent measures will be taken based on the facts emerging from the investigation.
Dhami also warned against the spread of misleading and provocative content on social media, saying that attempts to create divisions between communities will not be tolerated. He said legal action would be taken against individuals who spread false or inflammatory information.
Hemkund Sahib sees a rise in the number of pilgrims
The Prime Minister said that the Hemkund Sahib yatra is progressing smoothly along with the Char Dham trek and noted that more than 40 lakh devotees have visited the Char Dham shrines so far this season.
He added that the number of pilgrims visiting Hemkund Sahib during the first phase of the yatra this year is already 25,000 more than the corresponding period last year.
Dhami said Uttarakhand is home to important Sikh pilgrimage sites including Hemkund Sahib, Raitha Sahib and Nanakmata Sahib, which attract devotees from all over the country every year.
The government emphasizes sectarian harmony
The Prime Minister said that respect for all religions and traditions is an integral part of the culture and spirit of Uttarakhand. Referring to the principle of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, he said that every visitor to the state is treated with respect and hospitality.
He said the state government would not allow any action that offends individual dignity or offends religious sentiments, adding that dialogue, harmony and mutual respect remain the best way to resolve issues.
The meeting was attended by Padre Kedar Temple Committee Chairman Hemant Dwivedi, Hemkund Sahib Management Trust Chairman Narinderjit Singh Bindra, Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan and senior officials.
