Should police verification of Kanwariyas be mandated after recent vandalism incidents?

New Delhi, July 19 (NationPress) In light of escalating concerns regarding incidents of vandalism during the ongoing Kanwar Yatra, Congress leader Udit Raj has urged for police verification of Kanwariyas to pinpoint individuals responsible for the destruction of both public and private property.

He further accused the ruling BJP of intentionally fostering a communal narrative surrounding the situation.

Udit Raj's remarks followed closely after Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath robustly defended Kanwar Yatris, criticizing detractors who, according to him, are characterizing Shiva devotees as “hooligans” and “terrorists.”

While speaking to a crowd in Varanasi, Adityanath asserted that the yatris are often unjustly targeted and subjected to media scrutiny due to isolated incidents of public disorder.

In response to these comments, Udit Raj told IANS, “It’s the ruling party that’s creating this narrative. No Opposition leader has made any communal statements. The BJP is continuously attempting to provoke Hindu-Muslim tensions.”

He highlighted recent disturbances, including glass shards reportedly discovered on streets in Delhi and vandalism of government barriers and private vehicles.

“Is it acceptable that if a rickshaw lightly brushes against them, the vehicle becomes damaged? They are engaging in conflicts with shopkeepers and refusing to pay. Is this how devotees should conduct themselves?” he questioned.

Proposing a remedy, Udit Raj stated, “There must be police verification of those participating in the Kanwar Yatra. This will assist in identifying wrongdoers and cleansing the yatra. Investigations should be carried out to understand who is behind the damage to public and private property.”

The Congress leader’s comments arrive at a time when several reports from Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand have underscored Kanwariyas clashing with locals, causing property damage and creating traffic disruptions.

However, CM Adityanath, referencing past occurrences, remarked, “There was an incident of arson two-three years back… The investigation later revealed that the individual wore a saffron scarf but shouted Allah. Such individuals must be identified and expelled from society.”

He also mentioned a recent event in Jaunpur, where three individuals died when a towering Tazia structure came into contact with a high-tension wire.

“An attempt was made to obstruct roads and incite unrest. I have directed strict police actions. Those disturbing social harmony must realize that peace is non-negotiable,” CM Yogi asserted.

He urged society to reject those spreading hate through fake social media accounts and false identities.

“Only by eliminating such elements can we ensure national unity,” he added.

He also emphasized the inclusiveness of Indian tradition, noting, “Even those who dismissed the Vedas, like Charvak and Buddha, are honored in our culture. Both believers and non-believers are integral to the Hindu identity.”