Char Dham Yatra: Uttarakhand Police issue warning for pilgrims registering through fraudulent means

Uttarkashi (Uttarakhand), May 17: The Uttarakhand Police on Friday issued a warning for pilgrims who are registering themselves for the Char Dham Yatra through fraudulent means. The police said necessary action would be taken if anyone found guilty. 

The Uttarakhand Police said necessary arrangements were in place and the ongoing pilgrimage to the Yamunotri and Gangotri Dham was going on smoothly without any disruption.

“The pilgrimage to Shri Yamunotri and Gangotri Dham is going on smoothly. All pilgrimage routes are open. However, it has come to our notice that some people have embarked on the pilgrimage after registering for Char Dham through fraudulent means. Action will be taken against such people as per the law. Please plan on travel in accordance with the date of registration,” read a post on the official X handle of Uttarkashi Police.

Earlier, the Rudraprayag police launched ‘Operation Maryada’ to ensure civilised conduct of the pilgrims and the purity of the pilgrimage places are maintained. As part of this drive, the police are taking strict action against those found misbehaving with others and consuming alcohol or intoxicants in the yatra area and halts.

The police have urged the crowd to behave in a civilised manner to maintain the sanctity of the Char Dham Yatra. “The Rudraprayag police is committed to ensuring a smooth and safe journey for the pilgrims embarking on the Kedarnath Dham Yatra,” the post read.

“‘Operation Maryada’ was launched by the district police for effective action against those who behave indecently and consume intoxicants in the yatra area and the halts,” DSP, Guptkashi, Harshvardhini Suman said.

On May 15, Uttarakhand DGP Abhinav Kumar wrote to the Director Generals of Police of all states due to the unexpected crowd at the Char Dham Yatra’.

“Due to the unexpected crowding at the Char Dhams, I have written to the Director Generals of Police of all the states, requesting them not to send any VIP from their respective states for the Char Dham Darshan till May 31,” the Uttarakhand DGP added.

The Char Dham Yatra, which commenced on May 10, holds profound spiritual significance for millions in the country. This pilgrimage typically takes place between April-May and October-November every year. The Char Dham Yatra is a deeply spiritual tour of four of the country’s holiest sites–Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath.