Political Tensions Rise Over Kanwar Yatra Traffic Management in Uttar Pradesh

In Uttar Pradesh, the police have implemented a comprehensive traffic management plan for the upcoming Kanwar Yatra, aimed at ensuring the safety of participants and maintaining smooth traffic flow. This initiative has ignited a political controversy involving the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Samajwadi Party (SP), and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehad-ul-Muslimeen (AIMIM), with accusations of biased treatment towards religious events. The traffic strategy includes significant restrictions on heavy vehicles, such as trucks and buses, particularly in the Meerut Zone, where designated routes have been established for both Kanwariyas and regular traffic. These measures are intended to alleviate congestion and minimize the risk of accidents during the pilgrimage. Notably, Kanwariyas will be prohibited from using the Delhi-Dehradun Expressway (NH-344G), with vehicles traveling from Delhi to Dehradun being redirected through Baghpat and Shamli, alongside additional limitations on heavy vehicles along critical routes.

The traffic restrictions have sparked backlash from both AIMIM and the Samajwadi Party, who have criticized the BJP for what they perceive as a preferential approach to religious observances. AIMIM spokesperson Shadab Chauhan raised concerns about the government's handling of the situation, drawing a comparison between the arrangements for the Kanwar Yatra and the restrictions placed on public prayers, or namaz. He emphasized that while FIRs were filed against individuals offering namaz in Meerut, extensive road closures are now being enforced for the Kanwar Yatra. Chauhan argued that if the Constitution guarantees equal rights for all religions, then similar administrative measures should be applied uniformly to followers of every faith. The Samajwadi Party echoed these sentiments, asserting their commitment to respecting all religions and promising improved arrangements for the Kanwar Yatra if they regain power. SP spokesperson Fakhrul Hasan Chand highlighted the party's intention to enhance facilities for devotees, including better shelter and food options, while ensuring that no discrimination occurs against any religion under their governance.