Uttarakhand’s Char Dham Temples Ban Non-Hindus From Inner Sanctum
The Uttarakhand Char Dham Devasthanam Management Board has enforced a ban on non-Hindus entering the sanctum sanctorum (garbhagriha) of the revered Kedarnath and Badrinath temples. Alongside this, a strict dress code and a ban on mobile phones have been implemented for all visitors.
Key Details of the New Temple Rules
- Access Restriction: Entry to the innermost sanctum is now prohibited for non-Hindus.
- Dress Code: Men must wear dhoti-kurta or pyjama-kurta; women must wear saree or salwar-kameez.
- Mobile Ban: Use of mobile phones inside the temple premises is not allowed.
Official Reasoning and Mixed Reactions
Dr. BVRC Purushottam, CEO of the board, stated the measures aim to “maintain the sanctity of the temples.” The move has found support from temple priests, who believe it will preserve the sacred atmosphere.
However, the decision has sparked criticism from sections who label it as discriminatory and a potential violation of the constitutional right to equality. The debate touches on the balance between religious tradition and principles of equal access.
The Uttarakhand Char Dham Devasthanam Management Board is the statutory body responsible for managing the affairs of the four holy shrines (Char Dham) in the state.
