The Haridwar Municipal Corporation issued a firm clarification on Thursday, stating that no fresh restrictions have been imposed on the entry of non-Hindus into the sacred Har Ki Pauri area. This statement came in response to recent media reports that suggested the Uttarakhand government had taken a new decision on the matter.
An Old Rule, Not a New Policy
Municipal Commissioner Nandan Kumar addressed the issue directly. He explained that provisions limiting the entry of individuals who are not Hindu into the Har Ki Pauri ghat have been part of official manuals since before India gained independence in 1947. The only exception, as per the rule, is for officials who need to visit the site for official duties.
Kumar emphasized that portraying this long-standing provision as a recent government policy or a new administrative order is factually incorrect. He pointed to the specific clause that governs this practice. "Point Number 20 in the official manual clearly mentions the restriction on the entry of non-Hindus into the Har Ki Pauri area," the Commissioner stated.
Preserving Sanctity and Tradition
The rationale behind the rule, according to the municipal administration, is to preserve the religious sanctity and the traditional character of one of Hinduism's most revered ghats. Kumar stated that the regulation has been in place for a very long time and continues to be followed to maintain the site's spiritual ambiance.
He expressed concern over recent media coverage, which he said created a misleading impression among the public. The reports suggested the state government was planning to introduce a new restriction, whereas the provision has existed and been operational for decades.
Appeal for Fact-Checking
In light of the confusion, the Haridwar Municipal Corporation administration made a public appeal to media outlets. They urged journalists to verify facts thoroughly before publishing reports on sensitive issues that involve religious and cultural sentiments.
The administration warned that spreading inaccurate information could lead to unnecessary confusion and misunderstanding among citizens. The clarification aims to set the record straight, distinguishing between a newly imposed ban and the continuation of a historical regulation documented in civic manuals.
