In these troubled times, governments and people must understand in clear terms, that it was paramount to observe Covid protocols in order not to endanger the lives of fellow human beings. In this context, the needless controversy over the Kanwar Yatra has erupted with the Uttar Pradesh government allowing the pilgrims to carry on with their religious beliefs even though the Uttrakhand government has reserved its consent. The Central government in an affidavit to the Apex Court has also opposed the Yatra. The point here is that the U.P. government’s insistence is on account of the Assembly elections next year since it wants the majority community to believe that it would continue to honour their sentiments and was willing to take the risk, even if the Yatra was to be merely token, with fewer participants.
Yes, the right to religious practices is enshrined in our constitution and every community, majority or otherwise has all the right to carry on with its rituals. However, the pandemic has changed the way of life for all of us; everyone has had to press the reset button, in order to adjust oneself to the changed scenario which has during the second phase, claimed so many lives. The fear of the third wave is looming large and mind you, it is not imaginary. The third wave can cause extensive devastation if it comes and therefore it is the duty of every government as well as individual to take as many precautions as possible. Wearing masks and maintaining social distancing is what has been repeatedly advocated by experts and there is no reason why this norm should be flouted, both in letter and spirit. There is no doubt that people are sick and tired of remaining indoors and at the first opportunity head out to wherever they can.
The recent rush experienced at the Hill Stations of North India, particularly Mussoorie, Shimla, and Manali, demonstrated how caution had been thrown to the winds with so many tourists putting their lives at risk by flouting Covid protocols.
There may be several local beneficiaries of this tourist influx, but if the pandemic takes over, it would be a very heavy price to pay. The Uttrakhand government had during the last weekend, stopped around 5000 cars from entering Mussoorie. The Himachal Government has advised the visitors to stay away for the time being while clarifying that they were welcome to spend their leisure time in the cool climate but they should observe all norms strictly. The flash floods in Himachal near Dharamshala have changed the situation in that region and people have been told not to venture near any area where there are water bodies or rivers. The Kanwarias have been getting the Ganga water from Haridwar and Rishikesh each year and elaborate arrangements are made by their supporters on all major routes and highways. This is a time when a disciplined approach has to be adopted. The Kanwar Yatra can resume when better days return. Till that time, whether it is Kanwarias, the tourists or common people who throng markets, the most important thing is to go by the opinion of experts. Safety should always come first. Not only for individuals but for the society at large.