What Did CM Yogi Adityanath Say While Welcoming Shiva Devotees During Kanwar Yatra?

Meerut/Lucknow, July 20 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath warmly welcomed the Lord Shiva devotees participating in the revered Kanwar Yatra across western Uttar Pradesh, showering them with flower petals.

In a show of respect for their devotion, the Chief Minister distributed flowers to the Kanwariyas on the streets of Meerut and also paid tribute from a helicopter in other districts.

During a press briefing in Meerut, the Chief Minister issued a stern warning to any miscreants attempting to tarnish the Yatra or undermine its sanctity.

He noted that certain ‘motivated individuals’ are trying to defame this holy pilgrimage, particularly via social media. He assured that these individuals will be identified and dealt with severely.

“I extend my heartfelt greetings to all devotees in this auspicious month of Sawan,” said CM Yogi.

“Lakhs of Lord Shiva devotees from across the nation are gathering holy waters from the Ganga in Haridwar to perform Jalabhishek at esteemed temples like Baba Aughadnath, Pura Mahadev, and Dudheshwarnath. It is uplifting to witness such enthusiastic participation from people of all demographics—youth, women, children, and the elderly—creating a beautiful representation of social harmony,” he added.

The Chief Minister emphasized that while most devotees honor the sanctity of the Yatra, some anti-social elements are conspiring to tarnish its image.

“It is the duty of every Kanwar Sangh and every Shiv bhakt to expose such elements and promptly notify the authorities. The entire Yatra route is under CCTV surveillance, and once the Yatra concludes, strict action will be taken against those identified. Their posters will also be made public,” he stated.

Highlighting the extensive arrangements made for the Yatra’s smooth execution, CM Yogi noted that the government, along with the administration, voluntary organizations, and religious groups, has ensured comprehensive provisions for the comfort and safety of devotees.

“From pandals and welcome camps to facilities for drinking water, first aid, and rest areas, every effort has been made to ensure the Yatra is hassle-free,” he remarked.

The Chief Minister also urged devotees to maintain cleanliness during the pilgrimage.

“Please do not litter roads, intersections, or public spaces. The dignity of this sacred journey must be preserved. Shiv bhakts should proceed with a spirit of public welfare and be mindful of not causing inconvenience to others,” he appealed.

Taking a jab at previous administrations, CM Yogi noted that before 2017, such sacred pilgrimages were neither respected nor supported; they were obstructed.

“Today, with a government that honors and protects faith, it is the collective responsibility of all devotees to carry forward this tradition with peace and respect,” he concluded.