Why Were 27 Cops Suspended in UP's Saharanpur for Skipping Kanwar Yatra Duty?
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Synopsis
In a significant step to maintain order during the Kanwar Yatra, 27 police officers in Saharanpur have been suspended for unauthorized absence. This decisive action underscores the importance of public safety during this massive pilgrimage, highlighting the commitment of local authorities to discipline and effective policing.
Key Takeaways
- 27 police personnel suspended for absence during Kanwar Yatra.
- Senior Superintendent of Police emphasizes discipline.
- Kanwar Yatra attracts millions of devotees.
- Uttar Pradesh Police ramps up security measures.
- Safety guidelines strictly enforced for public health.
Saharanpur, July 12 (NationPress) In a decisive action aimed at upholding discipline during the ongoing Kanwar Yatra, 27 police officers in Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur District have been suspended for their unauthorized absence during their assigned duties for the yatra.
The suspension was ordered by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ashish Tiwari, who cited severe indiscipline and negligence during this critical period for public safety.
“We will not tolerate any negligence during the Kanwar Yatra, and the Saharanpur Police are on high alert,” SSP Tiwari stated.
Among those suspended are a Sub-Inspector, 10 Head Constables (including three women), and three attendants.
Their absence during the peak season of the yatra necessitated immediate administrative measures.
SSP Tiwari has been personally carrying out late-night inspections and patrolling along Kanwar routes to evaluate on-ground arrangements.
He inspected Route No. 02 of the Kanwar Yatra—from Bhagwanpur to Fatehpur Chhutmalpur Kalsia Behat Mirzapur—typically seeing fewer devotees.
He provided necessary instructions to the officers on duty and reiterated that any laxity in duty would not be tolerated.
Highlighting the critical nature of maintaining order during this significant religious pilgrimage, SSP Tiwari emphasized that any dereliction of duty—especially when police presence is vital for public safety—contradicts administrative directives and will incur strict disciplinary actions.
The Kanwar Yatra is a month-long religious journey during the holy Shravan period, attracting millions of Shiva devotees, known as Kanwariyas, who travel to sacred sites like Haridwar, Gaumukh, Gangotri, and the Ajgaibinath Temple in Sultanganj to collect holy water from the Ganga.
To manage the influx and ensure public safety, the Uttar Pradesh Police have significantly enhanced security measures.
According to directives from Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Krishna, the deployment includes 587 gazetted officers, 2,040 Inspectors, 13,520 Sub-Inspectors, 39,965 Head Constables and Constables, 1,486 women Sub-Inspectors, 8,541 women Constables and Head Constables, 50 companies of the Central Police Force and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and 1,424 Home Guards. Special provisions for 24/7 patrolling have been established, with UP-112 vehicles actively deployed.
Safety guidelines stipulate that devotees must walk only on the left side of highways, and food and rest camps should be set up at least 20 feet away from roads.
Authorities have issued warnings against overspeeding and reckless driving, and enhanced safety measures, particularly for women Kanwariyas, have been implemented. Prompt action will be taken in response to any complaints of inappropriate behavior.
Additionally, to protect public health and ensure fairness, inspections of food quality are being conducted.
Hotels and dhabas along the route are being monitored in collaboration with the Food Department, and the mandatory display of food item rates is being enforced to prevent overcharging.
Point of View
This decisive action by the Saharanpur police demonstrates a strong commitment to maintaining public safety during one of the largest religious pilgrimages in India. The suspension of officers for neglecting their duties sends a clear message about accountability and the importance of law enforcement during critical times. NationPress believes in upholding the principles of discipline and responsibility within public service.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the reason for the suspension of the police personnel?
The police personnel were suspended for being absent without permission during their assigned duties for the Kanwar Yatra, which is a critical time for public safety.
Who ordered the suspension of the police officers?
The suspension was ordered by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Ashish Tiwari.
What is the Kanwar Yatra?
The Kanwar Yatra is a month-long religious pilgrimage during the holy Shravan period, where millions of devotees, known as Kanwariyas, travel to sacred sites to collect holy water from the Ganga.
What security measures are in place for the Kanwar Yatra?
Significant security measures include the deployment of thousands of officers, special provisions for patrols, and strict adherence to safety guidelines for devotees.
How are food safety inspections being carried out?
Food quality inspections are underway in coordination with the Food Department to monitor hotels and dhabas along the route, ensuring fair pricing and food safety.
