Chhath Puja 2024: The Delhi High Court dismissed a petition filed by the Poorvanchal Nav Nirman Sansthan, seeking permission to conduct Chhath Puja along the banks of the Yamuna River. The court cited the high pollution levels in the Yamuna due to untreated sewage discharge, stating that allowing devotees to perform rituals in the river would not be feasible under current conditions.
Leaders’ Statements Criticized Over Encroachment on Yamuna Banks
In addition to denying permission for Chhath Puja, the court took a strict stance on statements made by political leaders regarding unauthorized settlements along the Yamuna banks and drains. The court criticized these statements, noting that such assurances to prevent removal of slum encroachments only add to the lack of a unified approach toward cleanliness and environmental protection in Delhi.
Petitioners Emphasize Environmental Aspect of Festival
During the hearing, petitioners argued that Chhath Puja celebrates nature and symbolizes purity, suggesting that fresh water could be released from Haryana’s Hathnikund Barrage to facilitate the rituals. They highlighted that the Delhi government had assured citizens they would not need to travel back to their hometowns to celebrate the festival. However, the court reiterated its concerns about allowing public access to a polluted Yamuna and declined the request.
Court Calls for Comprehensive Approach to Yamuna Cleanliness
The court noted that over 800 colonies in Delhi discharge untreated sewage directly into the Yamuna, making it impossible to ensure cleanliness in just a single day. The court suggested that petitioners file a separate plea focused solely on cleaning the Yamuna, indicating that it would support long-term efforts for this cause.
Keep watching our YouTube Channel ‘DNP INDIA’. Also, please subscribe and follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and TWITTER
Discussion about this post