New Delhi: Congress leader Udit Raj has sparked a new debate by demanding police verification of Kanwariyas participating in the ongoing Kanwar Yatra. His remarks follow reports of vandalism and unruly behavior by some yatris, including the presence of glass shards on Delhi roads and the destruction of public and private property.
Udit Raj stressed the need to identify troublemakers and “purify the yatra,” accusing the BJP of manipulating the issue to create communal tension. “It’s the ruling party that is constantly pushing a Hindu-Muslim narrative. No Opposition leader has made communal remarks,” he told IANS.
He questioned the conduct of some yatris, highlighting incidents of damaged rickshaws, scuffles with shopkeepers, and refusal to pay for services. “Is this the behavior of true devotees?” he asked. He suggested that mandatory police verification of participants would help in identifying those responsible for violence and disruptions.
His comments came a day after Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended the Kanwar Yatris, accusing critics of labeling Shiva devotees as “hooligans” or “terrorists.” Speaking in Varanasi, Adityanath said that isolated incidents were being used to malign the entire yatra.
Citing a past incident, Adityanath said, “There was an arson case two-three years ago where the person wore a saffron scarf but chanted ‘Allah.’ These people must be identified and removed from society.”
Referring to a recent tragedy in Jaunpur, where three lives were lost due to a Tazia structure touching a high-tension wire, the CM accused miscreants of attempting to incite unrest. He emphasized the need for firm action to protect peace and harmony. “Anyone disturbing social harmony should face strict action. Peace is non-negotiable,” he said.
The CM also warned about the misuse of social media through fake profiles and false identities. “To ensure national unity, we must eliminate such elements,” he added.
Highlighting India’s inclusive tradition, Adityanath noted, “Our culture respects even those who rejected the Vedas, like Charvak and Buddha. The Hindu identity embraces both believers and non-believers.”
The debate has gained momentum amid rising reports of clashes between Kanwariyas and local residents in states like Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
