'Mother Witnessed Crime': BJP Leader Held For Making Boyfriend Rape Her Teen Daughter
According to the police, the minor was gang-raped several times by her mother's boyfriend and his aide, both of whom are in their thirties, in Haridwar, Agra and Vrindavan between January and March this year.
BJP woman leader held for making boyfriend rape daughter
According to the police, the minor was gang-raped several times by her mother's boyfriend and his aide, both of whom are in their thirties, in Haridwar, Agra and Vrindavan between January and March this year.
Woman BJP leader's boyfriend rapes minor daughter in front of her; both held in Haridwar
HARIDWAR: A BJP leader and her boyfriend were arrested here for allegedly making him and his aide rape her 13-year-old daughter, the police said on Thursday. The matter came to light on Tuesday when the minor told her father about her ordeal, following which he lodged a police complaint, Haridwar SSP Pramendra Dobhal said. A case was registered under BNS Sections 70 (2) (gang-rape), 351(3) (criminal intimidation), 3(5) (criminal act) by several persons in furtherance of common intention) and relevant sections of the POCSO Act. Anamika Sharma and her boyfriend Sumit Patwal were arrested from a hotel here on Wednesday after a medical examination of the girl confirmed that she had been sexually assaulted, Dobhal said. Meanwhile, a search is underway to arrest Sumit's accomplice named Shubham. Anamika formerly headed the BJP Mahila Morcha's Haridwar district unit, however, once her name cropped up in this case, she was stripped of the party's primary membership. BJP sources here claim that she has not held any party post since August 2024. According to the police, the minor was gang-raped several times by her mother's boyfriend and his aide, both of whom are in their thirties, in Haridwar, Agra and Vrindavan between January and March this year. The men perpetrated the crime with her mother's consent and in her presence, the police said, adding that they also threatened to kill the minor's father if she disclosed it to anyone. Anamika had separated from her husband and has been living with her boyfriend in his hotel.
Minor Girl Alleges Mother Let Her Boyfriend Sexually Abuse Her, 2 Arrested
A former BJP office-bearer in the holy city of Haridwar has been arrested for allegedly allowing her boyfriend and others to sexually abuse her 13-year-old daughter.
Mother, lover held in horrific gang-rape of minor daughter in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand police have arrested a former office-bearer of the BJP Mahila Morcha and her lover on charges of facilitating the repeated gang-rape of her minor daughter. The woman is accused of allegedly orchestrating the brutalisation of her own child with her lover and his friend on multiple occasions. According to police sources, the accused woman, who had previously served as a BJP Mahila Morcha official, was living separately from her husband following a domestic dispute. While her son remained with his father, she took her daughter with her and subsequently began living with her lover, Sumit Patwal. The horrific ordeal came to light when the minor daughter visited her father. Observing her withdrawn and dejected state, the father initiated a conversation, during which the girl recounted her harrowing experience. On Tuesday evening, the distressed father brought his daughter to the Ranipur police station to lodge a complaint. The father's complaint alleges that in January, his wife took their daughter on the pretext of an outing in a car, accompanied by her lover Sumit Patwal and his friend Shubham, towards the BHEL Stadium area. There, after consuming alcohol, the two men allegedly gang-raped the minor daughter with the consent of her mother. Preliminary police investigation has further revealed that the child was also subjected to similar gang-rapes in hotels located in Agra, Vrindavan, and Haridwar. The daughter was allegedly threatened with the murder of both herself and her father if she disclosed the abuse to anyone. Speaking to TNIE, Haridwar Senior Superintendent of Police Pramendra Singh Dobhal stated, The medical report has corroborated the sexual abuse. On Wednesday, the accused woman and her lover, Sumit Patwal were arrested near Shivmurti Chowk. The search for the absconding accused, Shubham, continues. He further said the accused woman attempted to normalise the sexual abuse to her daughter, allegedly telling her that physical relations were ormal. The child was reportedly gang-raped a total of seven or eight times. Each time, she was allegedly given alcohol, and the former BJP leader was present during the horrific acts. It is also understood that the accused woman was running a hotel on lease with her lover, Sumit Patwal, in Haridwar's Chitra Talkies lane, and it was in this hotel that the daughter was also subjected to gang-rape. The Ranipur police station has registered a case under stringent sections, including gang-rape and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act. After the minor's medical examination and the recording of her statement before the court, police sent both accused to judicial custody. In light of these grave allegations, the BJP has expelled the woman from the party. Ashutosh Sharma, BJP District President, issued a letter confirming her immediate expulsion from the party's primary membership. She had already been removed from her post in the Mahila Morcha in August 2024 following complaints regarding her conduct.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has taken a stern stance on the land scam in Haridwar Municipal Corporation. Following his directions, seven officialsincluding two IAS and one PCS officerhave been suspended. Earlier, three officials were ...
2 Senior IAS Officers, PCS Officer Suspended In Haridwar Land Scam
Dehradun (Uttarakhand), Jun 3: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami took major action and suspended two senior Indian Administrative Officers (IAS) officers and a Provincial Civil Service (PCS) officer in the Haridwar land scam, according to an official statement from the Chief Ministers Office (CMO). A departmental inquiry will be initiated against the suspended officers. A total of 12 officers have been suspended against the officers including District Magistrate (DM) Kamendra Singh, former Municipal Commissioner (MC) Varun Chaudhary and Sub [] The post 2 Senior IAS Officers, PCS Officer Suspended In Haridwar Land Scam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Ganga Dussehra 2025: Ganga Flows Near Delhi Too, Reach In Just 20 Minutes With Namo Bharat
Ganga Dussehra 2025 In Delhi: Located on the banks of the Ganga Canal, Chhota Haridwar has become a popular alternative for those who are unable to visit Haridwar due to time.
Two IAS officers, one PCS officer suspended in Uttarakhand land scam case
DEHRADUN: In a decisive move, the Pushkar Singh Dhami government has launched a major crackdown on a significant land scam in Uttarakhand's Haridwar district, suspending a total of 12 individuals, including two IAS officers and one PCS officer. The sweeping action has implicated high-ranking officials, including the District Magistrate, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, and a former Municipal Commissioner. The case has now been handed over to the Vigilance Department for thorough investigation. According to official sources, the alleged scam involves the purchase of a 15-crore-rupee plot of land for an exorbitant 54 crore rupees. The Haridwar Municipal Corporation reportedly acquired an unsuitable and practically useless piece of land at an inflated price. The investigation report highlighted severe irregularities, stating, There was no immediate need for the land, nor was transparency maintained in the purchase process. The scam was executed by brazenly disregarding established government rules. Following the submission of the investigation report, immediate action was taken. Haridwar District Magistrate Karmendra Singh, former Municipal Commissioner Varun Chaudhary, and SDM Ajayveer Singh were among the first to be suspended. The list of suspended officials also includes Senior Finance Officer Nikita Bisht, Kanungo Rajesh Kumar, Tehsil Administrative Officer Kamaldas, and Senior Personal Assistant Vicky. This unprecedented action marks a significant moment in Uttarakhand's governance. It is the first time a ruling government in the State has directly targeted top officials within its own system with such stringent measures. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's resolute decision in the Haridwar land scam is not merely an expose of corruption but signals a decisive shift in Uttarakhand's administrative and political culture, a senior government official remarked. Earlier, in the initial phase of the inquiry, In-charge Assistant Municipal Commissioner Ravindra Kumar Dayal, Executive Engineer Anand Singh Mishrawan, Tax and Revenue Superintendent Laxmikant Bhatt, and Junior Engineer Dinesh Chandra Kandpal were also suspended. Additionally, Property Clerk Vedwal's service extension has been terminated, and disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against him. The Vigilance probe is expected to delve deeper into the nexus behind the fraudulent transaction.
Ganga Dussehra 2025: Date, puja timings, and why this day holds deep spiritual meaning
Ganga Dussehra, a significant Hindu festival, will be celebrated on June 5, 2025, marking Goddess Ganga's descent to Earth. Devotees believe bathing in the Ganga on this day washes away sins and brings peace. Celebrations include visiting holy places like Haridwar, offering prayers, lighting diyas, and participating in the Ganga Aarti.
Uttarakhand: CM Dhami holds virtual meet with district magistrates, reviews development works
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami reviewed development projects in a virtual meeting with district magistrates. He inaugurated the Vatsalya Ganga Ashray in Haridwar with Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, praising Sadhvi Ritambhara's work for destitute daughters. Gupta lauded Dhami's developmental efforts as an inspiration for Delhi and pledged to clean the Yamuna River.
Delhi CM Rekha Gupta embarks on spiritual yatra in Haridwar; vows for a cleaner Yamuna
DEHRADUN: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta offered prayers at Kedarnath and Badrinath on Monday, capping a spiritual visit to the revered Himalayan shrines this week. Her pilgrimage began on Sunday with a visit to Haridwar, where she performed rituals and sought blessings. On Monday morning, Chief Minister Gupta arrived at Kedarnath Dham, where she offered prayers to Baba Kedar for the prosperity and well-being of the nation. Following her visit to Kedarnath, she proceeded to Badrinath Dham to continue her spiritual journey. Earlier on Sunday, CM Gupta, accompanied by her husband, commenced her tour in Haridwar. Her first stop was the iconic Har Ki Pauri, where she took a holy dip in the sacred Ganga River. The Ganga Sabha extended a warm welcome to the Chief Minister, marking her first visit to Haridwar since assuming office. Reflecting on the significance of the moment, Chief Minister Gupta stated, The holy bath in Maa Ganga is very important for me. She added, I have come to the sacred land of Har Ki Pauri after completing 100 days of my government's tenure. I have bowed at the feet of Maa Ganga and prayed for India to become developed, with Delhi also securing its rightful place. During her Haridwar visit, the chief minister also expressed her aspiration for a cleaner Yamuna River. Speaking at the inauguration of the Vatsalya Ganga Ashram in Kankhal on Sunday, she remarked, Like the saints, I too wish that one day we can bathe in the Yamuna. For this, the campaign for Yamuna River's cleanliness will continue throughout my tenure. She further emphasised that she took a solemn pledge after her Ganga bath in the holy city, seeking blessings from the saints before departing.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, accompanied by her family, visited Kedarnath Dham to offer prayers, seeking strength to develop Delhi and contribute to 'Viksit Bharat'. Following the BJP government's 100-day milestone in Delhi, she also took a dip in the Ganga at Haridwar, vowing to clean the Yamuna River and expressing a commitment to Delhi's progress.
Caught in the act: Haridwar police nab chain snatchers - watch video
Uttarakhand police swiftly apprehended two chain snatchers in Haridwar, thanks to clear CCTV footage. The culprits, identified as house painters with prior offenses, were caught following a recent crime spree. Police recovered stolen jewelry, weapons, and cash. In related news, Haridwar police also solved two Roorkee theft cases, arresting three repeat offenders and recovering stolen goods.
5 media vehicles trailing Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's convoy crash near Haridwar
On Sunday morning, a collision involving five vehicles carrying journalists occurred near Haridwar, as they were en route to cover Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta's visit to Uttarakhand. The incident took place a few kilometers from Haridwar, reportedly triggered by a sudden brake application within what was believed to be Gupta's convoy.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta is planning a two-day religious trip to Uttarakhand in early June, following her first 100 days in office. She is expected to visit Haridwar on June 1 to take a dip in the Ganga at Har Ki Pauri.
BJP MLA Adesh Chauhan sentenced to six months imprisonment, gets bail
A special CBI court in Dehradun has sentenced BJP MLA Adesh Chauhan and his niece to six months imprisonment in a 16-year-old case. The case involves the assault of a man and his family at a Haridwar police station in 2009 following a dowry harassment complaint. Three policemen were also sentenced, though one has since died.
Chardham Yatra sees unprecedented offline registration surge; online slots full for May-June
DEHRADUN: Uttarakhand's revered Char Dham Yatra is witnessing an unprecedented surge in offline registrations, with over 27,000 pilgrims registering in a single day on Thursday. This significant increase comes as online registration slots for May and June have been completely filled, pushing pilgrims towards the offline channels. The state government has made registration mandatory for the Char Dham Yatra. The cumulative figure for both online and offline registrations has now surpassed 3.2 million. The Tourism Department initiated online registrations on March 20, leading to the current unavailability of slots for the peak months of May and June. To facilitate pilgrims, offline registration counters were opened on April 28 in key locations including Haridwar, Rishikesh, Herbertpur, and Naya Gaon Vikas Nagar. May 22 marked the first time over 27,000 offline registrations were recorded in a single day. Meanwhile, Friday witnessed the highest single-day pilgrim footfall of this Yatra season, with a remarkable 67,172 devotees visiting the four shrines. This figure represents the highest daily number since the commencement of this year's Char Dham Yatra. Yogendra Gangwar, Joint Director and Nodal Officer of the Uttarakhand Tourism Department, told TNIE , As of Friday, a total of 3,214,250 pilgrims have registered for the Yatra through various means. Out of these, 1,287,836 devotees have already completed their darshan. Gangwar further stated that the number of offline registrations is expected to increase in the coming days. He assured that adequate arrangements have been made to ensure that no pilgrim faces any difficulty during the registration process. So far, over 1.2 million pilgrims have successfully visited the Char Dhams against the total registrations.
7 Must-Visit Places on a 2-Day Trip to Haridwar & Rishikesh this Summer
Planning a quick getaway? Discover spiritual vibes, scenic spots, and serene experiences in just two days!
Six Bangladeshi nationals, Indian 'helper' arrested for illegal residence in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: Six Bangladeshi nationals, including four men and two women, have been apprehended from locations across Uttarakhand, including the capital Dehradun and the holy city of Haridwar. An Indian woman accused of facilitating their illegal presence in the state has also been taken into custody. The arrests followed confidential intelligence received by the police. Speaking with TNIE , Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ajay Singh confirmed the operation. We received confidential information regarding the presence of some suspicious individuals residing in Clement Town, SSP Singh stated. Acting on the tip, teams from the Special Operations Group, Local Intelligence Unit, and Clement Town police were dispatched for verification. This led to the apprehension of five Bangladeshi nationals Nirmal Rai, Shem Rai, Lipi Rai, Krishna alias Santosh, and Munir Chandra Rai from Lane Number 11, Post Office Road. An Indian woman, Pooja Rani alias Rosna, was found living with them. The individuals were unable to produce valid documents. Police searches recovered two illegal Aadhaar cards from Munir Chandra Rai and Bangladeshi identity cards from Krishna and Nirmal Rai. Four children found with this group have been taken into protection. The Bangladeshi nationals were arrested for illegally residing in India. Pooja Rani was arrested and booked for assisting them. Delhi police bust illegal Bangladeshi immigration racket, arrest 12 Separately, City Kotwali police and local intelligence units arrested a Bangladeshi woman and her Indian husband from a hut in the Roodki Belawala area on Friday night. They were reportedly living illegally using fake documents. The woman's minor son was also taken into protection. Police are actively searching for two individuals, identified as Mohammad Alam alias Alauddin and Noor Islam, who are believed to have helped the Bangladeshi nationals enter India. A joint team comprising personnel from the police, Military Intelligence, and the Intelligence Bureau (IB) is currently interrogating the arrested individuals. Initial findings indicate that the accused had settled in the area over time, with some having worked as labourers for a significant period. Bangladeshi national arrested in Bodh Gaya; fake Aadhar card, documents recovered
NEW DELHI: The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) on Saturday informed Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Harsh Malhotra, that the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway would be ready within three months. Malhotra inspected the entire 210-km stretch of the expressway along with officials from the Authority. The minister took cognisance of the various bottlenecks reported by NHAI officials and directed them to expedite the work and complete the project within the stipulated time frame so that it could be opened to the general public as scheduled. After the inspection, the minister stated that the expressway would be instrumental in decongesting the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi and also reduce the load on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway and other connecting highways. The 210-kilometre-long access-controlled expressway, with an operational speed limit of 100 kmph, will connect the national capital with Uttarakhands capital, Dehradun. It starts from Akshardham Temple in Delhi and passes through several districts of Uttar Pradesh, such as Baghpat, Baraut, Muzaffarnagar, Shamli and Saharanpur, before culminating at Dehradun. The project was expected to be completed within the deadline of March 2024. It was approved in 2020, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation of the expressway in December last year. The expressway is being developed at an approximate cost of 12,000 crore and will reduce the travel time from Delhi to Dehradun from the existing 6.5 hours to 2.5 hours. The expressway will also have a spur towards Haridwar and connect to the Char Dham Highway, thereby enhancing connectivity to the hill stations and pilgrimage sites of Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The final 20-kilometre stretch passes through the eco-sensitive zone of Rajaji National Park, where Asias longest elevated wildlife corridor (12 kilometres) is being constructed. This includes the 340-metre Daat Kali tunnel.
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant visited Haridwar's Har Ki Pauri for Ganga puja, accompanied by tight security and joined by BCCI President Jay Shah.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah, Anant Ambani Perform Ganga 'Aarti' In Haridwar
He would now visit the place and seek Ganga Maa's blessing every year, Shad added
Anant Ambani, Wife Radhika Merchant Offer Prayers At Haridwars Har Ki Pauri
Anant Amban and his wife, Radhika Merchant, performed the Ganga pujan with purohits of the Ganga Sabha
Uttarakhand: Outsiders can't buy farmland in 11 out of 13 districts
Uttarakhand has new land laws. Governor Gurmit Singh approved a bill. It restricts people from other states buying agricultural land. This applies to 11 districts. Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar are exceptions. The government aims to protect resources and culture. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami supports the law. He says it prevents uncontrolled land sales.
Attari-Wagah border completely shut after hundreds cross over; several Pakistani nationals stuck
NEW DELHI: The Attari-Wagah border crossing point between India and Pakistan was shut completely on Thursday following a week-long heavy rush of people from either side to cross over after the Union government ordered all Pakistani citizens with short-term visa to leave India in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. Even as sources confirmed the shutting of the border crossing, uncertainty prevailed at the Integrated Check Post (ICP) in Attari on Thursday as Pakistani nationals from across India gathered to cross over to Pakistan, only to find the border gates shut, despite the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) having extended the deportation deadline. The confusion was compounded by the fact that no Indian national returned from the other side either. Dozens of Pakistani nationals, men, women and children, had arrived at Attari from Jammu and Kashmir, Rajasthan, Delhi and other states, expecting to return to their country. However, the gates of the ICP remained closed, and authorities did not permit their passage. This came a day after the deadline for Pakistani nationals to return had officially lapsed. Although the MHA had amended its earlier directive, which had ordered the closure of the border on May 1, and allowed Pakistani nationals to leave India via Attari until further notice, no movement was seen from either side. A Delhi resident, Mohammad Shariq, whose sisters are married in Karachi, said the Pakistani side was not allowing them to cross. I came here with my sisters early in the morning. The border opens at 10 am. When we asked the officials, they said our government has given the order and we are sending people from here, but Pakistani authorities are not allowing them to cross over, he said. The Attari border has witnessed a heavy rush in recent days following the Union Governments order directing all Pakistani nationals on short-term visas to leave India in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack. Over the past week, 911 Pakistani nationals have departed India, including 125 who left on Wednesday. Sources said many of the Pakistani nationals were escorted by local police. Murawat Hussain Shah, who came from Rajouri, accompanied his cousins Saida Zameer Fatima and Saida Saheer Fatima, both of whom are being deported. He said, My cousins came to India in 1983 on valid visas after the death of their father and brother. Now, they have nobody in Pakistan. Everything they have is in India; they do not want to leave. In another case, 16 Pakistani Hindu nationals who had come to Haridwar for post-death rituals of their elders failed to reach the border on time after their taxi broke down. A Pakistani woman from Karachi, whose four-year-old child holds an Indian passport, also found herself in a fix. Either I should be allowed to stay here with my child or let my son accompany me to Pakistan, she said. The deadline for exiting India for those holding SAARC visas was April 26. For those carrying medical visas, the deadline was April 29. The deadline for 12 other categories of visas was April 27. These were visas on arrival and visas for business, film, journalists, transit, conferences, mountaineering, students, visitors, group tourists, pilgrims and group pilgrims. Three defence/military, naval and air advisors in the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi were declared persona non grata on April 23 and were given one week to leave India. Five support staff of these defence attaches were also asked to leave India. India also withdrew its defence attache from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. However, those having long-term, diplomatic or official visas were exempted from the 'Leave-India' order. Sources told PTI that altogether 125 Pakistani nationals left India through the Attari-Wagah border crossing point on April 30; a total of 94 Pakistani nationals, including 10 diplomats, left India on April 29; 145 Pakistanis, including 36 diplomats, their dependents and support staff, left on April 28; 237 Pakistanis, including nine diplomats and officials, left India on April 27; 81 left on April 26; 191 on April 25 and 28 on April 24. Pakistani women from Kashmir, including mother of police officer killed in terror attack, deported Fifteen Indian nationals with Pakistani visa also left India through the international border crossing point on April 30 while eight Indians left India on April 29, the sources said. Similarly, 152 Indian nationals crossed over to India from Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah border crossing on April 30; 469 Indians, including 11 diplomats and officials, returned from Pakistan through the same route on April 29; 146 Indians returned on April 28; 116 Indians, including one diplomat, returned on April 27; 342 Indians, including 13 diplomats and officials, came back on April 26; 287 Indians crossed over from Pakistan on April 25 and 105 Indians returned on April 24, the sources said. A total of 73 Pakistani nationals with long-term Indian visas came to the country through the border point on April 30; 22 Pakistani nationals came on April 29, while 129 Pakistanis with the same category of visas entered India on April 28. Sources said some of the Pakistanis might have left India through airports too, pointing out that since India does not have direct air connectivity with Pakistan, they might have left for a third country. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on April 25 called up the chief ministers of all states and asked them to ensure that no Pakistani stays in India beyond the deadline set for leaving the country. After Shah's telephonic conversations with the chief ministers, Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan also held a videoconferencing with the chief secretaries of states and asked them to ensure that all Pakistani nationals whose visas were revoked leave India before the deadline. The already-strained relations between India and Pakistan nosedived further after the horrific Pahalgam terror attack, with New Delhi announcing a raft of measures, including the cancellation of visas, against Islamabad, which hit back with a string of tit-for-tat measures. Closure of Attari- Wagah border hits dry fruits supplies from Afghanistan
The first batch of devotees left for Haridwar on Tuesday morning ahead of the Char Dham Yatra, which is set to begin from April 30. The portals of the Gangotri and Yamunotri Dhams are set to open on Wednesday whereas the gates of Kedarnath Dham will open on May 2, followed by Badrinath Dham, which is scheduled to open on May 4. As of now, more than 20 lakh people have registered for Char Dham Yatra 2025. According to official estimates, the numbers are expected to go upto 50 lakhs or even more. The online registration for the yatra started on March 20, while the offline mode commenced on April 28.
Uttarakhand courts grapple with mounting backlog; HC case pendency soars 24%, data reveals
DEHRADUN: In a contrasting trend, Court case pendency in Uttarakhand has increased by 9% over the past two years, even as some districts managed to halve their backlogs. As of early 2025, a total of 384,234 cases are pending across the state's courts, comprising 316,369 criminal and 67,876 civil cases. The Uttarakhand High Court alone recorded a 24% rise in pending cases during this period. According to data provided by the Uttarakhand High Court to Kashipur-based RTI activist Nadeem Uddin, the court had 44,512 pending cases at the start of 2023. This figure included 25,635 civil and 18,877 criminal cases. By the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025, the total number of pending cases had risen by 24 per cent to reach 55,323, comprising 30,301 civil and 25,022 criminal cases, Uddin told TNIE . In the state's subordinate courts, pending cases rose by 7% from 308,694 at the start of 2023 to 328,911 by early 2025. Criminal cases continue to dominate the dockets, with 270,822 pending in 2023, rising alongside 37,872 civil cases. District-wise data showed a mixed trend. Four districts saw an increase in pending cases, while nine districts managed to reduce their backlogs. Dehraduns pending cases rose by 5%, from 108,760 to 114,155. Haridwar reported a 21% surge, from 80,623 to 97,299 cases. Nainital district recorded a 2% increase, from 25,802 to 26,398 cases. Pauri district saw the sharpest percentage jump, with pendency rising by 52% from 7,071 to 10,777 cases. Tehri district registered a 9% increase, from 3,170 to 3,467 cases. Conversely, Udham Singh Nagar district recorded a 3% drop in pending cases, from 68,785 to 66,577. Uttarkashi district posted the most significant reduction, cutting its backlog by 50% from 2,711 to 1,364 cases.
Pahalgam terror attack: 77 Pakistani Hindus barred from undertaking Uttarakhand Chardham yatra
DEHRADUN: The hopes of 77 Pakistani Hindu pilgrims who had registered for Uttarakhand's world-famous Chardham Yatra, set to begin on April 30, have been dashed. Authorities have reportedly imposed a ban on Pakistani nationals undertaking the pilgrimage this year. The decision is understood to be a direct consequence of the altered security situation following a recent terrorist attack targeting tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Sources within the Uttarakhand Tourism Department's Yatra Division confirmed that besides Pakistan, registrations for this year's pilgrimage have also been received from the United States, Nepal, and Malaysia, among other countries. These three nations reportedly accounted for the highest number of foreign registrations this time. Providing details on the overall registration figures, Pradeep Chauhan of the Yatra Registration Division told TNIE, For the Chardham Yatra, which starts from April 30, online registrations have exceeded 21 lakh, he stated. Among these, 24,729 foreign nationals have registered to visit, including 77 from Pakistan. The situation for the Pakistani registrants is complicated by heightened tensions following a terrorist attack targeting tourists in Pahalgam attack. The attack has sparked widespread outrage across the country. In response, the Central Government has reportedly taken strict measures, including a decision to halt the issuance of visas to individuals arriving from Pakistan and a directive for Pakistani nationals currently residing in India to return within 48 hours. According to the government sources, as many as 250 Pakistani nationals have been identified as residing in Uttarakhand across districts including Dehradun, Haridwar, and Nainital, amidst recent tightening of visa regulations following security concerns. According to Director General of Police, Deepam Seth, a significant majority of these individuals are predominantly Pakistani Hindu citizens holding long-term visas. Out of these, 247 have arrived on long-term visas and are mostly Pakistani Hindu citizens, stated DGP Deepam Seth. Separately, action has been taken regarding the three Pakistani nationals on short-term visas. Two from Dehradun have already been sent back, while the third individual identified in Haridwar was repatriated on Saturday. The developments come in the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which led to a high alert being sounded across Uttarakhand, a state bordering China and Nepal. Instructions were also issued to monitor Pakistani nationals residing within the state. Adding to the heightened security measures, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday issued comprehensive guidelines to all states concerning visas for Pakistani citizens. Following Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's instructions, Additional Secretary Home Nivedita Kukreti issued a formal letter to top officials, including the DGP and district magistrates. The letter states that visa services for Pakistani citizens are suspended with immediate effect due to the Pahalgam incident. Valid visas for Pakistani nationals, except for specific categories, will be cancelled from April 27. Medical visas will remain valid until April 29.
Court acquits Jitendra Tyagi aka Wasim Rizvi in hate speech case
A Haridwar court has acquitted Jitendra Tyagi, formerly known as Wasim Rizvi, in the 2021 Dharam Sansad hate speech case. He has been acquitted on the grounds of benefit of doubt. The verdict was delivered by Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Avinash Kumar Srivastava on April 16. Background of the case The controversy stemmed from a Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Uttarakhand MPs sanction zero new projects, hundreds stalled from previous term
DEHRADUN: As per a Right to Information (RTI) disclosure, data reveals that none of the five MPs elected in the 18th Lok Sabha in 2024 have sanctioned any work from their allocated MPLADS funds as of December 2024. This highlights a significant lapse in the utilisation of the Member of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) funds by Uttarakhand's Lok Sabha MPs. Adding to the concern, former MPs from the 17th Lok Sabha tenure have managed to spend only 58 per cent of their allocated funds by the same date, with a striking 795 sanctioned projects yet to even begin. The information was obtained by RTI activist Nadeemuddin from the office of the Rural Development Commissioner, Uttarakhand, the nodal department for MPLADS. Citing the information received, Nadeemuddin confirmed, None of the MPs from the 18th Lok Sabha have sanctioned any work by December 2024. The data for the 17th Lok Sabha shows a total of 5782 works were sanctioned. By December 2024, only 3517 of these were completed, 1470 were ongoing, and 795 had not commenced. Sharing specific constituency details from the previous term of the MPs with TNIE, Nadeemuddin revealed, The former Almora MP, Ajay Tamta, utilised 69% of his funds, with 36 out of 1,763 sanctioned works remaining unstarted. In Haridwar, the situation is also concerning; current MP Trivendra Singh Rawat has sanctioned no work from his available Rs 5 crore allocation. Former Haridwar MP Dr. Ramesh Pokhriyal spent only 50 per cent of his funds, with 195 out of 355 works still in progress. Pauri MP Anil Baluni has also not sanctioned any work from his available Rs 5 crore fund for the current term. His predecessor, former MP Tirath Singh Rawat, saw only 38 per cent of his funds spent, leaving a significant 450 out of 986 sanctioned works unstarted. Tehri MP Rajya Laxmi Shah, re-elected in 2024, has not sanctioned any work from her current Rs 5 crore allocation, while 68 per cent of her previous term's fund was spent, with 307 works from 2397 unstarted. Similarly, Nainital MP Ajay Bhatt, also re-elected, has sanctioned no work from his current Rs 5 crore fund; in his previous term, 64 per cent of his funds were spent, with 2 out of 371 works unstarted.
Hero MotoCorp Halts Production For Three Days At Four Plants
Hero MotoCorp has halted production at its plants in Dharuhera, Gurugram, Haridwar and Neemrana to navigate a short-term supply agreement.
Uttarakhand government shuts down over 173 madrasas; 'historical move,' says CM Pushkar Singh Dhami
DEHRADUN: At least 173 madrasas across the state has been sealed by the Uttarakhand government, citing lack of registration with the Madrasa Board or the education department as the primary reason. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the move is a historic step aimed at curbing institutions that allegedly promote radicalism under the guise of education. The action has allegedly targeted unregistered madrasas lacking permission from the Uttarakhand Madrasa Education Council, with a significant concentration found in the border districts. Most of these allegedly unauthorised institutions were found in the districts of Dehradun, Haridwar, and Udham Singh Nagar. According to authorities, many of these madrasas operated without proper registration or building permits. Furthermore, authorities claimed that some sealed madrasas were under scrutiny for suspicious activities. Udham Singh Nagar district recorded the highest number of closures, with 67 illegal madrasas sealed. Haridwar followed with 44 closures, while Dehradun also saw action against 44 institutions. Smaller numbers were sealed in Nainital -19, Pauri 2, and one in Almora. Mufti Shamoon Qasmi, chairman of the Uttarakhand Madrasa Board, confirmed the ongoing operation and its rationale. Speaking to the New Indian Express, he stated, On Sunday, 13 illegal madrasas were sealed in Banbhulpura, Haldwani. Besides these, campaigns against illegal madrasas were also conducted in Dehradun, Haridwar and Udham Singh Nagar. Qasmi emphasised the critical reasons behind the crackdown, explaining, The illegal madrasas that were acted against had neither obtained building construction permission, nor had they fulfilled educational recognition or safety standards. Uttarakhand Madarsa Board Chairman Mufti Shamoon Qasmi told TNIE , 'Our goal is to improve madarsas and provide quality education to students, aiming to make them cultured and well-rounded individuals.' He emphasized modernizing madarsa education, introducing the NCERT syllabus, and promoting interfaith understanding, aligning with the government's vision of inclusive development.
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Honored by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Mahamanch for Implementing UCC in Uttarakhand
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami was honored by the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Mahamanch at a program held in Haridwar for implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) in Uttarakhand.
Uttarakhand's demographic shift: Migration threatens hill region's political clout
DEHRADUN: A stark reality is unfolding in Uttarakhand, where a significant demographic shift is underway. The state's nine mountainous districts are witnessing a rapid exodus of people, while its four plains districts - Dehradun, Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, and Nainital - are grappling with an unexpected surge in population growth. This imbalance is affecting not only the social and economic fabric but also poses a threat to the political representation and existence of the mountainous regions. If no concrete measures are taken to stem this migration before the next delimitation, the political existence of the mountains will be weakened, warns Anoop Nautiyal, an activist and founder of Social Development for Communities (SDC). In the wake of five South Indian Chief Ministers uniting over delimitation, the issue is also gaining traction in Uttarakhand. While the Delimitation Commission is yet to be formed in the state and the census is pending, indicating time before action, unlike South India, Uttarakhand's concerns stem from its own unique demographic shift internal migration. The population is rapidly migrating from the nine hill districts that formed the basis of the concept of a hill state. Concurrently, the population in the state's four plain districts is increasing at the same rate, highlighted Anoop Nautiyal, founder of SDC, in a comparative analysis shared with TNIE. He further emphasized, Election Commission voter lists corroborate these facts. Voter numbers have increased much more rapidly in the plain districts compared to the hills. This demographic trend is reportedly a major concern for political figures deemed influential in the hill state's interests. This migration pattern raises serious questions about political representation and the future voice of the hill regions, remarked Jai Singh Rawat, a historian and analyst on the subject, while speaking to TNIE. According to official sources, In 2018, the Migration Commission reported that over five lakh people had migrated from Uttarakhand. Of these, more than three lakh people had temporarily left their homes in search of work or due to a lack of basic facilities. Official sources added, Since then, the state government has been undertaking measures to curb migration and promote reverse migration. According to the Election Commission's records, the first assembly elections in 2002 saw a total of 5,270,375 voters. Of these, a majority, numbering 3,779,523, resided in the four plains districts of Dehradun, Nainital, Udham Singh Nagar, and Haridwar. This constituted 52.7 percent of the total electorate. In contrast, the nine hill districts accounted for 2,490,852 voters, or 47.3 percent of the total. At the time, the difference in voter share between the plains and hill districts was a marginal 5.4 percent. However, this gap has widened considerably over the years. The Election Commission data shows a consistent increase in the plains districts' share of the voter base. By 2012, the total number of voters had risen to 6,377,330. This figure further jumped to 8,266,644 in 2022. In the decade between 2012 and 2022, the electorate swelled by 1,889,314, marking a significant 31 percent increase in voter numbers, stated a source within the Election Commission. Delving deeper into the regional distribution, the data reveals a pronounced trend. In 2012, the four plains districts were home to 3,658,842 voters, representing 57.4 percent of the state's total electorate. By 2022, this number had surged to 5,010,881, now accounting for 60.6 percent of the total voters. Over the span of two decades, the plains districts have witnessed an addition of 1,352,039 voters, a staggering 72 percent growth in their voter base, the source added.
IRCTC pilgrim special towards Haridwar-Rishikesh-Vaishnodevi-Amritsar-Anandpur on April 23
15 prisoners at Haridwar district jail test HIV positive
Haridwar: Fifteen inmates of the Haridwar district jail have tested HIV positive, prison authorities said. More than 1,000 inmates are lodged in the prison. Senior Jail Superintendent Manoj Kumar Arya said prisoners were examined at a health camp organised inside the jail on World Health Day on April 7 and 15 of them tested HIV Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Crackdown on Madrasas: 84 Islamic Schools Shut in Uttarakhand
Muslim Community Condemns Targeted Action Dehradun: The BJP-led Uttarakhand government has shut down 84 madrasas, triggering protests and accusations of discrimination. The closures primarily affected Muslim-majority districts 43 in Dehradun, 9 in Udham Singh Nagar, and 31 in Haridwar and Nainital. Governments Justification & Community Backlash Officials claim the move ensures legal compliance, but critics [] The post Crackdown on Madrasas: 84 Islamic Schools Shut in Uttarakhand first appeared on .
Unrelated Video of Deers on Road Viral as One From Kancha Gachibowli, Hyderabad
This old 2020 video was shot in Haridwar and is not related to the Kanchi Ganchabowli area in Hyderabad.
544 accident-prone spots identified for Char Dham Yatra in Uttarakhand
DEHRADUN: With the Char Dham Yatra set to begin later this month, the authorities concerned in Uttarakhand have identified 544 accident-prone spots along the routes of pilgrimage across four districts. In view of this, the transport headquarters has issued a letter to the National Highways Authority of India, Border Roads Organisation and the Public Works Department, urging immediate action in these areas and requesting a report on the measures taken. In a bid to enhance safety and ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience for the Yatra, government sources reveal, road safety committees in Dehradun, Haridwar, Uttarkashi, Tehri, Pauri, Rudraprayag and Chamoli districts have been directed to conduct surveys. According to these committees, a total of 544 accident-prone areas have been identified that require immediate attention. The report highlights that there are 38 such areas in Haridwar, 65 in Chamoli, 297 in Tehri and 144 in Dehraduns Vikas Nagar and Rishikesh regions. Sources indicate that the safety measures recommended for these routes include traffic calming interventions, rumble strips, informational signage, pothole repairs, chevron boards, crash barriers, road markings, reflectors, the removal of debris along the roads and addressing unauthorised median openings & blind curves. In a notable first, this years Char Dham travel routes have been divided into 15 super zones, 41 zones, and 137 sectors. Speaking to this daily, Dehradun Traffic SP Lokjeet Singh stated, Each sector will cover an area of 10 kilometres. Police personnel will be on patrol 24 hours a day, ensuring safety and order. He added, Over six thousand police officers and staff will be deployed to manage security and traffic throughout the pilgrimage route. Notably, registrations for the Yatra have now surpassed an impressive 12.5 lakh. Yogendra Gangwar, the nodal officer from the Uttarakhand Tourism Department overseeing Char Dham yatra registrations, told TNIE, We have recorded 3,674 registrations for Kedarnath, 3,045 for Badrinath, 1,918 for Yamunotri and 2,105 for Gangotri from foreign visitors. The online registration process, which requires Aadhaar verification, began on March 20.
Ramdev slams oppositions vote-bank politics on Waqf bill
Haridwar: The Waqf (Amendment) Act will strengthen Indias system of one Constitution, one law for all religions, yoga guru Ramdev said on Sunday and described the legislations passage in Parliament a historic decision. He also alleged some political parties were opposing the legislation for votebank politics. People of different communities would have demanded separate boards Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Haridwar to close all meat shops in the city
Authorities in Haridwar are relocating all butcher shops outside municipal limits. This follows a municipal corporation resolution from last year. Currently, around 100 butcher shops operate in the area, with only a few holding valid licences. The move aims to improve sanitation and control the stray dog menace. Illegal shops will be sealed.
Haridwar to be butcher-free, meat shops to exit city limits
Authorities in Haridwar are relocating all butcher shops outside municipal limits to improve sanitation and control stray dogs. Around 100 shops, mostly in Jwalapur and Jagjeetpur, will be affected. Validly licensed shops will move to a new site in Sarai village while illegal ones will be sealed. Residents have long complained about the poor hygiene of these shops.
Buckwheat flour food poisoning cases surge to 337 amid Navratri festivities in Dehradun
DEHRADUN: Health authorities in Dehradun are on high alert as the number of patients suffering from consuming contaminated buckwheat flour (Kuttu aata) has surged to 335 across the city. Among them, 227 patients have been hospitalized due to their severe conditions. The situation has escalated quickly, with 70 patients currently admitted at Doon Hospital, a hospital spokesperson reported. The sudden influx of patients has put immense pressure on local healthcare facilities, forcing some hospitals to accommodate two patients per bed. As of Monday evening, 58 patients have been discharged after receiving treatment, while the remaining individuals continue to receive care. According to reports, the Doon Medical College has witnessed the highest influx of patients amid the ongoing health crisis. Following this, individuals have also sought treatment at Coronation Hospital and various other private hospitals in the district. As per data released by health department, by Monday evening at 7 PM, a total of 120 patients had arrived at Doon Medical College. Out of these, 70 patients are still admitted and receiving care, a hospital spokesperson confirmed. Additionally, Coronation Hospital has reported 118 patients, while private hospitals collectively treated a total of 97 individuals. Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh visited patients hospitalized due to the consumption of toxic buckwheat flour. During his visit, he instructed the doctors to ensure the provision of quality healthcare services to the affected individuals. This incident is quite sensitive, Dr. Rajesh remarked. Speaking with TNIE , Rajesh said, Instructions have been issued to launch a campaign to test the buckwheat flour. Raids and sampling will commence across the state. A thorough investigation will also be conducted to examine what quality control measures are employed from the producers to the market and during the grinding process to convert the seeds into flour. According to data from the Health Department, in the past five years, 600 individuals in Uttarakhand have fallen ill after consuming buckwheat flour. Fortunately, all patients recovered after treatment, and there were no fatalities reported. Notably, in October 2020, 115 people in Roorkee became ill after eating buckwheat flour. In Haridwar, 145 cases of illness related to buckwheat flour consumption were recorded over the past five years, including 20 cases in 2023 and 125 cases in 2022. Additionally, in Rudrapur, US Nagar, nine individuals fell ill in 2021 after consuming the flour. On April 16, 2024, during the 'Kanya Poojan' festival, three people in Kichha reported health issues after eating buckwheat flour. Moreover, on Monday, besides 316 cases in Dehradun, 12 individuals in Laksar also fell ill due to buckwheat flour consumption.
Uttarakhand CM Dhami announces plan to rename 15 regions known by Mughal-era names
DEHRADUN: Following the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code and anti-conversion laws, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced plans to rename 15 regions known by Mughal-era names. This decision includes the renaming of one assembly constituency and a municipal council. Speaking about the changes, Dhami emphasized that the renaming of various locations in Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar reflects public sentiment and aligns with Indian culture and heritage. The changes will inspire people to contribute to the preservation of our Indian culture and honor the great personalities who have shaped it, he stated. This announcement comes in the wake of rising tensions between Haridwar MP Trivendra Singh Rawat and state bureaucrats, which had escalated over an offensive comment made by Rawat regarding a state official. The situation had sparked considerable anger among IAS officers in the state. Following Rawat's controversial remarks, the opposition Congress party also voiced strong reactions. In the wake of comments made by MP Trivendra Singh Rawat regarding an IAS officer, the Uttarakhand IAS Association has issued a resolution, announcing plans to submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister. On Saturday, Rawat refrained from commenting on a statement made by the state's mining secretary, who had denied the MP's allegations of illegal mining raised during a session in the Lok Sabha on Thursday. In a dramatic turn of phrase reminiscent of a film dialogue, Rawat stated, Sher kabhi kuttey ka sheekar nhi karta. (A lion doesnt hunt dogs.) During his address in Parliament on Thursday, Rawat, who represents Haridwar, highlighted what he described as a troubling matter in his home state. He asserted, In Uttarakhands Dehradun, Haridwar, Udham Singh Nagar, and Nainital, illegal mining is becoming rampant at night. That same evening, in an apparent effort to counter the allegations, the state government released a video featuring Mining Secretary Brijesh Sant, who categorically denied the claims made by Rawat. Garima Mhara Dasoani, the chief spokesperson for the Congress party in the state, has expressed sharp criticism of the Dhami governments recent decision regarding the renaming of certain areas. The government should be more concerned about social harmony in the regions rather than changing their names. Instead of focusing on name changes, the government should pay more attention to altering its working style and make efforts in that direction, she stated. In her remarks, Garima also pointed out that Haridwar MP Rawat has held a mirror to his own party, demonstrating how the state government is functioning. Rawat's comments reflect the reality of the government's operations, she added, emphasizing the need for accountability and effective governance.
Aurangzebpur now Shivaji Nagar as 11 places renamed in Uttarkhand
Dehradun: In a significant move to pay tribute to prominent figures who contributed to preserving Indias rich cultural legacy, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has announced the renaming of various locations in the districts of Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar. The Chief Minister emphasised that the renaming process reflects public sentiment while Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Aurangzebpur to be renamed Shivaji Nagar, says Uttarakhand CM Dhami
Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced the renaming of 13 areas and two roads in four districts to reflect Indian culture and heritage. The changes include new names in Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, and Udham Singh Nagar, inspired by prominent Indian figures.
Uttarakhand renames 18 places located in Haridwar, Dehradun, Nainital, Udham Singh Nagar districts
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami says the move is to respect public sentiment and preserve Indian culture and heritage
Haridwar dharam sansad: SC issues notice on Waseem Rizvi's plea to club cases against him
The Supreme Court has issued notices on Jitendra Narayan Tyagi's plea to club all criminal cases against him related to alleged hate speeches at the Haridwar dharam sansad in 2021. Tyagi faces four cases, including one in Srinagar, which he argues poses significant risks to his safety.
Bus carrying 50 yatris to Haridwar flagged off
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Mar 27: In a remarkable initiative taken by the Jammu Yatri Bhawan Trust to facilitate spiritual fulfillment, this time on the request made by Satish Sharma, Cabinet Minister, Trust has facilitated a group of devotees for taking dip in Holy Ganga Maiya ji in Haridwar. The Jammu Yatri Bhawan Trust has made their boarding and lodging besides food arrangements in its Haridwar Bhawan and in addition also arranged Yoga Shivir Camp, said Pawan Kumar Shastri, President of [] The post Bus carrying 50 yatris to Haridwar flagged off appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Pawan Kumar Shastri flagging off bus to Haridwar on Thursday.
Pawan Kumar Shastri flagging off bus to Haridwar on Thursday. The post Pawan Kumar Shastri flagging off bus to Haridwar on Thursday. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Four Fraudsters Pose As Haridwar Akhara Priests At Delhi Aerocity, Flee With Gold Ring
Delhi Police arrested four individuals posing as head priests from Haridwar Akhara for cheating Gagan Jain out of his gold ring. They were identified through CCTV footage
Two Killed as Sand-Laden Dumper Rams Car at Lachhiwala Toll Plaza
Accident on Haridwar-Dehradun Road leaves car mangled; investigation underway
Chhattisgarh Waqf Board reschedules Friday prayers on Holi, issues directives
The Chhattisgarh Waqf Board has rescheduled Friday prayers in mosques from 12:30 PM-1:00 PM to 2:00 PM-3:00 PM on March 14 due to Holi celebrations coinciding with the prayer time. Similar adjustments are made in Haridwar and Gorakhpur to maintain peace during religious observances, with officials emphasizing community cooperation and law enforcement readiness.
Conservation of medicinal plants underscored
Haridwar: A two-day event on the topic regional training for development of agricultural entrepreneurship in cultivation of medicinal plants, sponsored by the National Medicinal Plants Board Scheme under the AYUSH ministry, was recently held at Patanjali Research Foundation in Haridwar. At the programme, emphasis was laid on conservation of medicinal plants, plantation and the protection []
Celebrating a Decade of Aludecor Sand & Rustic Series: Where Nature Meets Design
It all started on the peaceful shores of the Ganga in Haridwara place that holds an almost mystical charm. Watching the golden sands glisten in the evening light, we were struck by an idea: What if we could capture this natural beauty in architectural form using ACP Sheets?
Bajrang Dal storms Haridwar college over Iftar at campus
Bajrang Dal office bearer Amit Kumar alleged that the party had been organised in the Hindu religious city as part of a conspiracy to bring outsiders to the college campus.
Bajrang Dal Workers Barge Into Haridwar College Over Iftar Party
Bajrang Dal workers on Saturday stormed the Rishikul Ayurvedic College here in protest against some Muslim students organising an Iftar party on the campus and inviting outsiders to it.
Bajrang Dal storms Haridwar college over Iftar party, cries Islamic Jihad
HARIDWAR: Bajrang Dal workers on Saturday stormed the Rishikul Ayurvedic College here in protest against some Muslim students organising an Iftar party on the campus and inviting outsiders to it. Police placated the right-wing workers, who left but not before creating a ruckus and warning of a more aggressive agitation if no action was taken in the matter within three days. On Friday, some Muslim students reportedly organised an Iftar party on the college campus. Bajrang Dal office bearer Amit Kumar alleged that the party had been organised in the Hindu religious city as part of a conspiracy to bring outsiders to the college campus. Rishikul Ayurvedic College has historical importance. This medical college was established under Rishikul Vidyapeeth, established by Pandit Mahamana Madan Mohan Malviya. Students from all over the country come here to get medical education, the Bajrang Dal functionary said. Organising any such event by non-Hindus in the Haridwar area is already prohibited under the Municipal Corporation bylaws, he claimed. A conspiracy is being hatched in the religious city under Islamic Jihad. If the management does not initiate steps for the expulsion of the guilty students within three days, then the Bajrang Dal will be forced to escalate the protest, Kumar warned. Rishikul Ayurvedic College Director DC Singh on Friday that he received a complaint about some students having a party on campus without getting permission from the administration. Some students had brought food items there. We went and stopped the party, Singh said. A committee of college teachers has been formed to investigate the matter and submit a report, he said.
'Conspiracy under Islamic Jihad': Bajrang Dal storms Haridwar college over Iftar party
Bajrang Dal protested at Rishikul Ayurvedic College in Haridwar against an Iftar party organized by Muslim students, alleging it to be part of an 'Islamic Jihad' conspiracy in the religious city. The college administration is investigating the incident, with the Bajrang Dal demanding action within three days or threatening to escalate the protest.
Yoga Guru, Baba Ramdev, Union Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan along with others during foundation day celebration of University of Patanjali in Haridwar. The post Yoga Guru, Baba Ramdev, Union Minister, Dharmendra Pradhan along with others during foundation day celebration of University of Patanjali in Haridwar. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
On Maha Shivratri, Devotees Offer Special Prayers And Take A Holy Dip At Har Ki Pauri | N18S
On Maha Shivratri, devotees offer special prayers and take a holy dip at Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, and in the Godavari River, Nashik, seeking Mahadevs divine blessings n18oc_shortsNews18 Mobile App - https://onelink.to/desc-youtube
INTERVIEW | AI played key role in managing 63 crore Mahakumbh crowd: Prayagraj ADG
Managing a crowd of over 1.5 to 2 crore on a daily basis for a span of 45 days sounds a daunting task comprising intricate challenges for law enforcement agencies and the administration. Undeniably one of the largest congregations of humanity on earth, the Mahakumbh, which is nearing its finale on Mahashivratri on Wednesday, leaves behind a trail of sweet and bitter experiences. Bhanu Bhaskar, ADG, Prayagraj Zone, at the helm of affairs, shares his insights into crowd management and other aspects of the religious festival while talking to TNIE's Namita Bajpai. Excerpts: Did the administration really expect crowds of this magnitude at the Mahakumbh? The previous trends and historical data available suggested that after the fourth snan, which is the Basant Panchmi Snan, there is a drop in crowd levels in the Kumbh and Mahakumbh. And then after the fifth and the sixth snan, there is another discernible drop in the magnitude of the crowd. But this time, there was an enhanced surge. So we had a consistent flow of pilgrims between 1.5 crore to two crore every day. As the state government had estimated a footfall of 40-odd crore during the entire Mela span, what was the pre-Mela strategy chalked out for crowd management of the Mahakumbh? So the pre-Mela strategy depends upon quite a few things. One was getting the inputs about the incoming crowds and the pace at which the crowd is coming up. So there was a regular feedback mechanism and regular inputs from all the verticals like the roads and the transport and the toll plazas and the railways. These are the regular modes of transport which people use to come to the mela. There was a regular input mechanism. That input mechanism was then used to take decisions regarding the crowd management strategy. Moreover, there were various management strategies employed which included the facilitation of the crowds, the diversion of the crowds and others. Despite such strategies already in place, what went wrong on Mauni Amavasya, January 29, when the unfortunate stampede happened claiming so many lives? What were the major lapses? It was extremely unfortunate because we had been working to avert any such tragedy for over the last two years. Before January 29, there were a lot of positive stories about Mahakumbh which were the result of our hard work of two years. However, the unfortunate and painful incident was all because of the massive crowd pressure. However, on this particular question there's a judicial commission which is looking into it. So, I would not like to share my views because I have to give my views before the judicial commission. After the Mauni Amavasya stampede, what were the special measures taken by the administration for succeeding snans so as to avert the recurrence of a mishap? There was a review meeting convened by the state Chief Secretary and Director General of Police immediately on January 30. The joint team of Chief Secretary and the DGP visited the mela and the areas where the possible weaknesses had developed and addressed them. It was followed by a high-level meeting by the Chief Minister on the same day itself. The CM also visited the mishap site on the Mela premises. After the visit of the CM, the Chief Secretary and the DGP, we reviewed the areas where we were doing better and also those areas where we needed to improve. We picked up from where we had left and started preparing for the next snan. And then all the CCTV cameras were analyzed and the strong points were enhanced and the gaps were filled up because there was a huge crowd surge that was coming up. So all the gaps were re-looked into and additional police and administrative personnel were posted to keep a close watch of the crowd to regulate its movement. What has been the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as it was a highly-publicized tool which was being used for the first time for crowd management and monitoring other aspects related to the mela? It was very, very useful. Basically, Artificial Intelligence was used for the first time in the world for crowd management because the existing software was not aware of how to give input. So, we had been machine learning these softwares for over six months and testing them on Dussehra, Diwali and other such occasions when the crowd surges in respectable numbers at various specific places. Using all those inputs, we machine-learned the existing software so as to get credible inputs. The inputs thus received were very, very useful over a period of time. They could give us the density mapping and other parameters including the rate at which the crowd was surging. Bhanu Bhaskar, ADG, Prayagraj Zone How far has this entire system been helpful in managing pilgrims who get lost and separated from their kin in such congregations? We have 10 lost and found centres which also use Artificial Intelligence along with the existing system. They included trained psychologists and trained psychiatrists because the trauma, which the children and women face under such circumstances after getting separated from the families, is immense. So in order to make them relax, the measures were taken. Plus facial recognition technology was used to a great extent so that, in case the person is lost, his/her name and face is flashed across all the 10 centres and other places to identify the location. The results of this use of technology have been exceedingly positive and encouraging. There's an input result of close to 95 per cent. And the remaining also, we are working on it. Thus, the facial recognition technology along with Artificial Intelligence coupled with picking up the faces from the images and the photographs and then matching it with the real faces was a cutting-edge technology which was used to reunite the persons lost in the melee with their families. Meanwhile, most of these technologies are present, but they were machine-learned and customized to meet the requirements of the present times. Therefore, the success rate has been very encouraging. Moreover, the results which we have carried from here will now be passed on to the other three Kumbh Mela venues including Nasik, Ujjain and Haridwar, so that they can also learn from our experience and implement the same technology for better management of things. Even their team is here and they have been working with us hands on for the last two months so that they can also learn from our experience. The number of devotees thronging the Mela has breached the 63-crore mark against an estimation of 40 crore. What technique is being used to determine the precise number of devotees thronging the Mela and taking holy dip on a particular day? A first of its kind AI-enabled monitoring of crowd density per square metre, inflow and outflow of pilgrims and ground assessment is enabling the authorities to fetch the figure of devotees visiting the Mela daily. There is an Integrated Control and Command Centre (ICCC) where multiple teams of police personnel, senior IPS officials, and experts are deputed and they are keeping a close watch on every alert. The alerts keep popping out on the screens in the ICCC so the authorities on the ground are directed accordingly to address a particular situation at a particular place so as to avert any untoward incident, check barricade breaches and even crime. The 4000-acre Mela ground has around 2,750 close-circuit cameras monitoring the movement of the crowd and other activities. Of those 2750 CCTV, about 250 are AI-enabled, feeding information to the Integrated Control and Command Centre (ICCC) of the Mela empowering the authorities with unique and real-time insights into crowd density per square metre at the bathing ghats, footfall in the Mela premises per minute, parking status of vehicles, crowd accumulation at key junctions and the need to issue alerts based on pre-set danger thresholds. The screens at ICCC continuously throw up images of ghats, fetching data charts and real time information on population density. The inputs are also there about people entering and leaving ghats from over half a dozen entry and exit points. Teams collate data from different sources including railways, road and transport and highways to make the accurate assessments. What were the tools used to manage the traffic as there were reports of huge vehicular pressure in and around Prayagraj resulting in massive jams in the Sangam city, adjoining districts and on national highways? First of all, I would greet the people of Prayagraj for extending immense cooperation in implementing the traffic plan laid out for Mahakumbh. Despite heavy vehicular flow, we could maintain the traffic movement effectively. Traffic facilitation has become possible because the vehicular movement is being monitored regularly in all the districts adjoining Prayagraj along with Lucknow zone, Kanpur zone and Varanasi zone. Moreover, the district magistrates of all the adjoining districts are managing not only the incoming crowds but also the vehicular traffic on the ground themselves. So all the districts touching Prayagraj more or less witnessed seamless traffic movement all this long. Monitoring through drones is also being done regularly. However, there have been bits of misleading information about long traffic jams in and around Prayagraj on social media. I would urge everyone to follow information disseminated by the official social media handles of the UP government, UP Police department and Mela authorities in order to avoid the traffic jams which are caused more by misinformation.
In Push For BJP's Key Poll Plank, Delhi Chief Minister's Day 1 Yamuna 'Aarti'
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and her ministers, hours after taking oath, made a beeline for Yamuna at Vasudev Ghat, where they are participating in the river aarti -inspired by the daily evening ceremony at the ghats of Ganga at Haridwar and Va
Ramdev blocks anti-ageing campaigner Bryan Johnson on X over air quality comment on Patanjali post
Yoga guru Ramdev blocked Bryan Johnson on X after Johnson criticized India's air quality in response to Ramdev's post promoting Patanjali products. Johnson's comment highlighted the health risks of poor air quality in Haridwar. Known for his longevity campaign, Johnson made headlines for expressing concerns about India's pollution affecting his health.
Bryan Johnson Claims Baba Ramdev Blocked Him For Commenting On Anti-Aging Post; Here's What He Said
Johnson commented on pollution levels in Haridwar. US millionaire and anti-aging fanatic Bryan Johnson claims that Yoga guru Ramdev blocked him on X after the former commented on the latter's post.
Anti-Ageing Millionaire Bryan Johnson Posts He Was Blocked By Ramdev Because...
In response to Ramdev's video, Bryan Johnson pointed out that the air quality in Haridwar.
Millionaire Bryan Johnson Posts He Was Blocked By Ramdev Because...
In response to Ramdev's video, Bryan Johnson pointed out that the air quality in Haridwar.
Bryan Johnson says Ramdev blocked him on X after comment on post regarding anti-ageing claims
US millionaire Bryan Johnson has alleged that Yoga Guru and Patanjali founder Ramdev blocked him on X after he dismissed his anti-ageing claims. The exchange began after Johnson commented on a video posted by Ramdev, in which he was seen running alongside a horse while promoting Patanjali's 'Swarna Shilajit' and 'Immunogrit Gold'. Ramdev claimed the products could boost immunity, enhance stamina, and slow down ageing. Johnson, however, was unconvinced and responded by highlighting Haridwars poor air quality, stating that simply breathing there increased the risk of heart and lung diseases. Ramdev's post on X, written in Hindi, promoted Patanjalis supplements with the claim: Ghode ki tarah tez daudne ki taakat, strong immunity, anti-aging aur power chahiye toh Swarna Shilajit avam Immunogrit Gold khaaiye (If you want to run like a horse, have strong immunity, anti-ageing benefits, and power, then consume Swarna Shilajit and Immunogrit Gold). US millionaire Bryan Johnson responded to the post by once again highlighting concerns over air quality in India. Air quality in Haridwar right now is PM 2.5 36 g/m which is equal to smoking 1.6 cigarettes a day, he wrote. This raises risks of heart disease by 4050%, lung cancer by 3x, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and early death (57 years lost), Johnson claimed. Minutes later, the entrepreneur tweeted saying he had been blocked by Ramdev. I replied with this comment and he hid it and blocked me: Air quality in Haridwar right now is PM. 36 g/m which is equal to smoking 1.6 cigarettes a day. This raises risks of heart disease by 4050%, lung cancer by 3x, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and early death pic.twitter.com/z99RZDjXar Bryan Johnson /dd (@bryan_johnson) February 19, 2025 Johnson made headlines weeks ago when he abruptly left Nikhil Kamaths podcast, citing Indias air pollution. Since then, he has repeatedly raised concerns over the countrys worsening air quality. The millionaire, who invests millions in his strict anti-ageing regime, claimed that his brief stay in India caused multiple health issues due to the poor air quality. Explaining his decision to exit the podcast, Johnson later stated, When in India, I did end this podcast early due to the bad air quality. Nikhil Kamath was a gracious host, and we were having a great time. The problem was that the room we were in circulated outside air, which made the air purifier I'd brought with me ineffective. Why Bryan Johnson is right on Indias air quality
Why Delhi is sitting on a seismic timebomb with Haridwar and Moradabad connection
A 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck Delhi-NCR early Monday, marking the first significant seismic activity directly within Delhi in 295 years. The epicenter was in New Delhi at a depth of five kilometers, with tremors felt at 5:36 am. Fortunately, no damage or injuries were reported. Delhi lies in Seismic Zone IV, making it vulnerable to future earthquakes.
New Delhi stampede: Rail Bhavan gets into huddle
NEW DELHI: Under pressure from various quarters, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Sunday held a series of meeting at the Rail Bhavan to take stock of the safety measures during heavy passenger rush. Vaishnaw also met and briefed Home Minister Amit Shah about the stampede at the New Delhi railway station. Railways announced the names of two high administrative group officials, who will be part of the inquiry committee constituted to probe the stampede at the New Delhi Railway station. Narsingh Deo, Principal Chief Commercial Manager, Northern Railway, and Pankaj Gangwar, Principal Chief Security Commissioner, Northern Railway, are the members of the committee, the railways said. Railways directed all zones to remain on maximum alert, ensuring the safety of passengers during seasons of heavy footfall, especially in stations dealing with high numbers of passengers traveling to the Maha Kumbh. Sources said nearly 60%-70% of those attending the Kumbh are taking trains. The railway stations across Uttar Pradesh have been put on high alert following massive convergence of devotees reaching Prayagraj for holy dip at Sangam. Prayagraj and its neighbouring districts, including Ayodhya, Gonda, Varanasi, Fatehpur, Gorakhpur and Lucknow experienced huge crowd on railway stations. ADG, Railways, Prakash D has issued directives to the authorities concerned to ensure deployment of GRP personnel on all stations across the state. Heightened alert has been sounded on railway stations across Madhya Pradesh, with security being beefed, particularly at the Katni and Satna stations of the West Central Railway (WCR). There is a huge rush of devotees bound to Maha Kumbh. The rush is at its peak in Katni and Satna, the two stations on the route of long-distance trains coming from central, western and southern India to Prayagraj, police said. In Satna, in-charge IG of Rewa Saket Pandey along with administrative, health and railway officials, held a meeting on Sunday afternoon and decided to raise the number of GRP and RPF jawans up to four times at key stations. All trains towards Prayagraj from Jharkhand are overcrowded, with even people with valid reservation tickets finding it hard to board trains. According to a passenger from Hazaribagh, Premchand Prasad, who boarded the train from Koderma, trains are running without ticket collectors and RPF jawans as even they are not able to board the trains. The East Central Railway has bolstered safety measures as most passengers from Bihar are bound for Prayagraj. 'Confusing announcements triggered stampede': Delhi police say after initial probe Major stampedes across country Jan 29, 2025: 30 killed and 60 injured at Maha Kumbh July 2, 2024: 121, most of whom women, lost during a satsang by godman Bhole Baba in Hathras, UP March 31, 2023: 36 died when a well collapsed during Ram Navami at Indore temple January 1, 2022: 12 died and over a dozen injured at Vaishno Devi shrine in J&K due to heavy rush of devotees September 29, 2017: 23 dead and 36 injured in a stampede on a bridge connecting Elphinstone Road station with Parel station of Central Railway in Mumbai July 14, 2015: 27 pilgrims died and 20 injured at a bathing spot along Godavari where devotees gathered for festival in Rajahmundry, AP October 3, 2014: 32 killed and 26 injured at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, shortly after Dussehra celebrations ended October 13, 2013: 115 killed and over 100 injured during Navratri near Ratangarh temple in MPs Datia January 25, 2005: Over 340 devotees trampled to death and hundreds injured during a pilgrimage at Satara temple August 3, 2008: 162 dead, 47 hurt at Naina Devi temple in Himachals Bilaspur September 30, 2008: 250 devotees killed and 60 hurt in a stampede following rumours of a bomb at Chamunda Devi temple in Jodhpur March 4, 2010: 63 killed at Ram Janki Temple in UPs Pratapgarh where people gathered to collect clothes and food from a godman January 14, 2011: 104 Sabarimala devotees killed and over 40 injured when a jeep crashed into homebound pilgrims in Keralas Idukki November 8, 2011: 20 killed in Haridwar at Har-ki-Pauri ghat along the Ganga November 19, 2012: 20 killed and several injured as a makeshift bridge caved in, triggering a stampede during Chhath Puja at Adalat Ghat in Patna
Legal challenges emerge for Uttarakhand's UCC; court to deliberate soon
DEHRADUN: A significant legal battle is unfolding in Uttarakhand as five petitions have been filed against the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which came into effect on January 27 . Various Muslim organisations and concerned groups are contesting the law's legality, claiming it undermines their community's established personal laws. The Nainital High Court has set a hearing for all related petitions on April 1, allowing six weeks for the parties to prepare their arguments. The petitions assert that the UCC conflicts with the prevailing practices of the Muslim community, raising concerns about its implications on personal rights. In a significant pronouncement, Chief Justice G Narendar, presiding over the division bench of the High Court, urged individuals adversely affected by the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) to seek judicial recourse. Individuals who believe they have been impacted by actions taken under the UCC are hereby encouraged to bring their grievances before the court, he said. Among those challenging the UCC is Mohd. Mukim, the Nainital District President of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind (JUH), who, along with Tajim Ali from Haridwar, Shoaib Ahmed from Mallital Nainital, Mohammad Shah Nazar, Abdul Sattar, and Mustaqeem Hasan from Dehradun, voiced their concerns during a recent hearing. Additionally, Naeem Ahmed Qureshi, President of the Muslim Sewa Sangthan, has also filed a writ petition against the UCC. The legal fray intensified with advocate Arushi Gupta filing public interest litigation against specific provisions of the UCC. Just days earlier, Suresh Singh Negi from Bhimtal contested the UCC's regulations regarding live-in relationships, reflecting widespread discontent among various groups. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal presented compelling arguments before the bench, asserting that no provincial government possesses the authority to implement a UCC under the third entry of the legislative list. Even Article 44 does not permit any provincial government to enact such a law, Sibal contended. He further emphasised that the UCC violates fundamental rights enshrined in Articles 14, 19, 21, and 25 of the Constitution, urging the court to impose a stay on its implementation. In response, the advocate representing the Uttarakhand government opposed Sibal's request and sought additional time to file a reply. The court directed the state government to respond accordingly. The next hearing is scheduled for April 1, 2025, where Sibal intends to focus on securing a stay. Highlighting potential penalties and fines associated with the UCC, Sibal underscored the urgency for judicial intervention. The Chief Justice assured that if any case arises during this interim period, petitioners could bring it to the court's attention immediately, reiterating that anyone personally affected by the law may seek redress from the bench. Uttarakhand government ensures privacy in UCC registration
Nurse found dead in Uttarakhand hospital, murder case registered
The body of a 23-year-old nurse from Haridwar, Saloni Singh, was discovered inside a locked toilet at a private hospital. Her father alleges she was murdered and that the hospital administration is attempting to mislead them. Police have registered a murder case against unknown persons following a complaint from her parents.
MLA Pawan Gupta and R S Pathania flagging off Udhampur-Haridwar bus service on Saturday.
MLA Pawan Gupta and R S Pathania flagging off Udhampur-Haridwar bus service on Saturday. The post MLA Pawan Gupta and R S Pathania flagging off Udhampur-Haridwar bus service on Saturday. appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Ramnath Mishra, the head priest of Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple in Karachi, is in Prayagraj to immerse the ashes of 400 Hindus and Sikhs. He performed his son's sacred thread ceremony and plans to take the ashes to Haridwar after a ritual in Delhi. Mishra has renovated the crematorium in Karachi where he collected the ashes.
Karnatakas Kumbh Mela: Devotees take a holy dip at T.Narsipur as three-day event begins
The Kumbh Mela in Karnataka began in 1989 as the initiative of some pontiffs, to encourage the devout to take a dip at the confluence at T.Narsipur in case they could not make it to the Kumbh Melas that take place at Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain or Nashik.
Over 40 crore pilgrims take dip in Mahakumbh
LUCKNOW: The ongoing Mahakumbh in Prayagraj continues to draw an overwhelming number of devotees, with the total count surpassing 40 crore by 4 PM on Friday. The grand religious congregation has seen participation from people across India and different parts of the world, all seeking spiritual liberation and divine blessings at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati at Sangam. Among the distinguished guests who visited Mahakumbh were Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan, Haryana Chief Minister Naib Singh Saini, and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel. Several Bollywood personalities also graced the event. During his visit on Friday, Arif Mohammad Khan praised Indias Sanatan culture, calling it magnificent. He remarked that Mahakumbh reflected the unity of Sanatan traditions and emphasized that Indian culture teaches people to see every human being in their divine form. He further said that Mahakumbh showcases how traditions bring people together, as even strangers participate in rituals with a shared sense of devotion and unity. The chief ministers of Haryana and Gujarat also expressed their joy after taking a holy dip at Sangam, calling it a great fortune. , - - , @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/UfZyLIb4uR Nayab Saini (@NayabSainiBJP) February 6, 2025 68 Hindu devotees from Pakistan visits Mahakumbh Meanwhile, a group of 68 Hindu devotees from Sindh province in Pakistan arrived at Mahakumbh to immerse the ashes of their ancestors and experience the spiritual grandeur of the event. These devotees, who had obtained a special visa for the pilgrimage, had earlier visited Haridwar, where they performed Vedic rituals and immersed the ashes of nearly 480 ancestors. Accompanied by Mahant Ramnath Ji, they later traveled to Prayagraj, took a holy dip in the Sangam, and prayed for the salvation of their ancestors. The Pakistani devotees expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to participate in Mahakumbh, describing it as a long-cherished wish not only for themselves but also for their ancestors. They shared that the spiritual connection to Sanatan traditions and the sacred call of Mahakumbh had drawn them to Prayagraj, fulfilling a lifelong aspiration to take a holy dip in the Triveni Sangam and carry its sacred water back home. The religious fervor at Mahakumbh remains high even after the three Amrit Snans Makar Sankranti, Mauni Amavasya, and Basant Panchami. Pilgrims continue to arrive in large numbers, ensuring a relentless flow of devotees seeking divine blessings. Mahakumbh 2025: Over 10 crore pilgrims took holy dip at Sangam, says UP government As the event progresses, the total footfall is expected to cross the 50 crore mark, with state authorities initially estimating the arrival of around 45 crore devotees. The sacred congregation has already witnessed visits from several top dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi on February 5, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on February 1, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah on January 27. President Droupadi Murmu is also scheduled to visit Prayagraj on February 10 to participate in rituals at Triveni Sangam. With 19 days remaining, Mahakumbh continues to be a grand spiritual spectacle, drawing millions of devotees who seek divine grace and the eternal essence of Sanatan traditions.
Devotion knows no borders: 68 Pakistani Hindu devotees attend Mahakumbh in Prayagraj
A group of 68 Pakistani devotees arrived on Wednesday, 05 th February in India from Pakistans Sindh, registering their attendance at the grand spiritual gathering of the world, the Mahakumbh 2025. The devotees took the holy dip at the holy confluence on Thursday, reflecting upon the Mahakumbh and Sanatan Dharmas significance that could draw them all over Pakistan. Reportedly, the group is staying at Shri Gurukarshnis camp in Sector 9 of the Kumbh mela city. A few members of the group are carrying the six urns of ashes of their loved ones which they desire to immerse in Ganges, Haridwar. In the Hindu religion, Haridwar is believed to be the gateway to salvation. The 68 people were somehow drawn to the divinity and spirit of the Mahakumbh, stories and regular updates they have been putting up through social media. Govind Ram Makhija, one of the group members shared, We have been hearing about the Mahakumbh from the past two to three months and had a great desire to be here. We could not stop ourselves from coming and experiencing the grandeur of the event. He also informed that last year as many as a 200 people had come from Pakistan to Prayagraj to take the holy dip in Ganges. While this time, 68 people had come for the sacred event from Ghotki, Sukkur, Khairpur, and Shikarpur districts of Sindh, Pakistan. 50 devotees are witnessing Mahakumbh for the first time. He further added, Its a bliss. I am very happyI do not have words to describe the experience here. We took the holy dip in the Ganga. Upon coming here, we feel proud of being part of Sanatan Dharma. Mukesh, who belongs to Ghotki province of Sindh has kind of a similar experience to share. He had come to India and the Mahakumbh for the first time. Mukesh had to say, I got a chance to explore our religion in depth. It feels very good, and Im thankful to the Indian Government for providing the visa and other facilities. Priyanka, another first-time visitor shared her sentiments, Seeing our culture here is a divine experience. I am lucky to come to India. It is an overwhelming experience to be part of this majestic event. There is not much discrimination against Hindus in Sindh province, but we are getting a chance to see our culture here, for which we are happy. The 68- member group is prepared to leave for Raipur on February 8 th , after which they will head to Haridwar. They were all praise and grateful for the government and their arrangements of Mahakumbh.
