CM Dhami Orders Strict Measures at Uttarakhand Temples After Haridwar Stampede
Dehradun | TheTrendingPeople.com — In the aftermath of the tragic stampede at Haridwar’s Mansa Devi Temple that claimed eight lives, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Monday held a high-level meeting and issued strict directives to prevent such incidents in the future.
The Chief Minister, while chairing a crucial meeting with officials from multiple departments at the state secretariat, emphasized the urgent need to improve crowd management, devotee registration systems, and overall infrastructure at key religious sites across the state. His instructions come amid an unprecedented surge of devotees to major temples.
Key Temples Under Watch
The CM identified several temples witnessing an overwhelming number of visitors, including:
- Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi Temples (Haridwar)
- Kainchi Dham (Nainital)
- Jageshwar Temple (Almora)
- Neelkanth Mahadev Temple (Pauri Garhwal)
These temples, revered by lakhs of devotees every year, are now being closely monitored by government agencies to ensure public safety.
Mandated Devotee Registration and Walkway Expansion
Highlighting the need for structural upgrades and orderly darshan experiences, CM Dhami directed authorities to:
- Mandate online and offline devotee registration
- Expand walkways and stairs to prevent bottlenecks
- Remove encroachments near temple premises
- Ensure availability of basic amenities like drinking water, restrooms, and shaded waiting areas
He stated that these steps are essential for making the pilgrimage safer and smoother for devotees, especially during peak seasons and religious festivals.
Special Task Force to Oversee Implementation
A committee will be formed under the leadership of the commissioners of both Kumaon and Garhwal divisions. Members will include:
- District Magistrates of respective districts
- Senior Superintendents of Police
- Vice Chairpersons of Development Authorities
- Representatives of executing agencies
This task force will be responsible for executing crowd management strategies, infrastructure development, and ensuring coordination between departments.
Mansa Devi Temple Redevelopment to be Prioritized
CM Dhami specifically called for planned redevelopment of the Mansa Devi Temple complex in Haridwar. He instructed that the darshan system be made more streamlined and efficient, using both digital and physical solutions for better management of the temple premises.
“The registration of devotees must be made compulsory. We cannot afford any laxity in ensuring their safety, especially after what happened at Mansa Devi Temple,” the Chief Minister told officials.
Crackdown on Demographic Manipulation and Religious Conversion
Apart from temple management, CM Dhami used the meeting to assert the need for tightening anti-conversion laws in Uttarakhand.
“Uttarakhand is not only a border state but also the holy land of Sanatan Dharma. Any attempt to alter its demography through unlawful conversions will be strictly dealt with,” he said.
He also directed the police to remain vigilant against suspicious activities and ensure that no anti-social elements exploit religious sentiments for personal or political gain.
‘Operation Kalanemi’ to Continue Against Anti-Social Elements
CM Dhami lauded the progress of Operation Kalanemi, a campaign launched by the state police to curb criminal and anti-social elements. He asked law enforcement authorities to intensify this operation, particularly in religious and sensitive areas where security risks may increase due to large gatherings.
A Wake-Up Call After Haridwar Tragedy
The directives come just a day after a deadly stampede at Haridwar’s Mansa Devi Temple left eight people dead and several injured. Initial investigations suggest a combination of unregulated crowds, narrow pathways, and lack of emergency exits led to the tragedy.
In response, CM Dhami said, “Our temples must be places of peace and devotion — not danger. What happened in Haridwar should never happen again.”
The state government’s comprehensive response includes policy reforms, infrastructure expansion, and legal tightening to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Final Thoughts by TheTrendingPeople.com
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami’s swift action post the Haridwar stampede underscores the government’s seriousness about safeguarding pilgrims and preserving Uttarakhand’s sacred heritage. With increased scrutiny, stronger laws, and dedicated task forces, the state is on course to ensure that its temples remain safe sanctuaries for worshippers. The coming weeks will be crucial in turning these directives into action, and restoring public confidence in the pilgrimage experience.