The 2024 Char Dham Yatra, a revered Hindu pilgrimage in Uttarakhand, India, has witnessed a surge in devotees. Amidst the throngs of pilgrims undertaking this holy journey, the Rudraprayag Police have launched a special initiative – Operation Maryada – to ensure decorum and uphold the sanctity of the pilgrimage.
Operation Maryada
सोनप्रयाग पार्किंग में गाड़ी की छत पर शराब पीकर हुड़दंग करने वाले गाजियाबाद निवासी 4 युवकों के विरुद्ध रुद्रप्रयाग पुलिस ने कार्यवाही की है। निकट भविष्य में आवश्यकता पड़ने पर ऐसे लोगों के विरुद्ध अभियोग पंजीकृत कर उचित वैधानिक कार्यवाही की जायेगी।#OperationMaryada pic.twitter.com/x1Fel5NZha
— Rudraprayag Police Uttarakhand (@RudraprayagPol) May 14, 2024
Operation Maryada translates to “Operation Decency” and reflects the police’s commitment to a respectful and spiritual experience for all devotees. This initiative comes in response to concerns about behaviour that disrespects the sacred nature of the pilgrimage.
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Guptkashi, Mrs Harshvardhini Suman, has appealed to pilgrims to refrain from consuming alcohol or intoxicants along the Yatra route or at rest stops. Maintaining cleanliness and respecting the Dham (pilgrimage site) are also central to Operation Maryada.
The high influx of devotees this year has necessitated stricter enforcement. The Rudraprayag district police have already issued challans (fines) to 25 individuals for violations within the first four days of the yatra. This serves as a deterrent and underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are taking this initiative.
Also Read: Chardham Yatra 2023: A Step-By-Step Guide On How To Register For Badrinath Kedarnath Yatra
Pilgrim Participation
The Char Dham Yatra encompasses four revered Hindu pilgrimage sites: Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, and Badrinath. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape, these Dhams hold immense spiritual significance for Hindus. Operation Maryada aims to ensure that every pilgrim can experience the yatra in a peaceful and spiritually enriching manner.
Operation Maryada’s success relies on the active participation of pilgrims, including respecting local culture, maintaining cleanliness, being considerate of others, and abstaining from alcohol and drugs. Devotees should dress modestly, maintain cleanliness, and avoid littering at rest stops and Dhams.
They should also keep noise levels low and avoid disruptive behaviour to ensure a peaceful journey. By following these guidelines, pilgrims contribute to a meaningful and respectful experience for themselves and their fellow devotees.
By following these simple guidelines, pilgrims can contribute significantly to a respectful and enriching experience for themselves and their fellow devotees.
Also Read: Yamunotri Temple To Remain Open From May 10 To Oct 31 For Chardham Yatra 2024
Operation Maryada is a commendable step by the Rudraprayag Police. It highlights the importance of striking a balance between managing large crowds and preserving the sacred character of the Char Dham Yatra. With cooperation from the devotees and continued vigilance by the authorities, this initiative can ensure a truly meaningful pilgrimage experience for all.
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
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