Haridwar, April 3 (NationPress) Renowned seer, Acharya Ayodhya Prasad Shastri, has expressed strong support for the initiative to move all raw meat shops from the urban areas of Haridwar to Sarai village on the outskirts prior to the forthcoming Ardh Kumbh. He articulated that this decision is paramount for upholding the spiritual purity of the revered city and fostering a setting that is favorable for religious activities.

In an interview with IANS, Acharya Ayodhya Prasad Shastri remarked that the existence of meat shops in a city that plays host to one of the most sacred congregations of Hindu worshippers could disrupt the spiritual discipline maintained by the saints and devotees.

"During the Kumbh in Haridwar, numerous ascetics, sages, and saints will arrive. They will engage in various yajnas, rituals, deep meditation, and take vows. If they encounter anything deemed inappropriate, it may evoke feelings of impurity or mental unease," he noted.

He underscored the significance of preserving a serene and pure environment, especially for those who are meditating and practicing spirituality during the Kumbh.

"Thus, to maintain mental tranquility and ensure adherence to truth, vows, and discipline, this initiative is absolutely essential. Such measures will undoubtedly yield substantial benefits," the seer elaborated.

These statements come as preparations ramp up for the Ardh Kumbh scheduled for 2027 in Haridwar, with expectations of millions of devotees from across the nation and beyond.

Officials indicated that current municipal regulations already prohibit the sale and consumption of meat, alcohol, and eggs within a five-kilometer radius of Har Ki Pauri, one of the city's most sacred ghats.

In accordance with these regulations, the administration has proposed relocating all raw meat shops within Haridwar's urban limits to Sarai village, aiming to streamline arrangements and respect the religious sentiments during this significant event.

Meanwhile, Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Anand Vardhan recently conducted a review of the ongoing preparations in Haridwar and inspected the infrastructure projects associated with the Kumbh Mela.

He instructed officials to ensure that all construction and civic improvements are completed within the designated timelines while adhering to quality standards, emphasizing the government's commitment to ensuring smooth and efficient arrangements for the religious gathering.

The Ardh Kumbh, celebrated every six years, is a significant spiritual event that transforms Haridwar into a focal point of spirituality, drawing saints and devotees to the banks of the Ganga for sacred dips and rituals.