Kanwar Yatris Labelled As Criminals, Terrorists: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

Last Updated:July 18, 2025, 13:24 IST

Kanwar Yatra is a major annual Hindu pilgrimage in India, during which devotees of Lord Shiva, known as Kanwariyas, travel on foot to collect sacred water from holy rivers.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. (PTI)

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday said that Kanwar Yatra pilgrims go through “media trials", are “defamed" and even " labelled as criminals and terrorists."

“From the lowest class to the highest class, every person is connected to this movement (Kanwar Yatra). It is a wonderful display of unity. There is no discrimination of caste, region, class, religion or community," said CM Yogi.

“However, there is a media trial, and the Kanwar Yatra is being defamed. They (Kanwar Yatris) are even labelled as criminals and terrorists. This reflects a mentality that seeks to tarnish India’s heritage in every way," he added.

The Kanwar Yatra is a major annual Hindu pilgrimage in India, during which devotees of Lord Shiva, known as Kanwariyas, travel on foot to collect sacred water from holy rivers like the Ganga (Ganges) and carry it back to offer at Shiva temples, especially Shiva lingams, during the holy month of Shravan.

The yatra is a mix of spirituality, endurance, and celebration, but it has also been at times associated with clashes, loud processions, and road blockages, drawing criticism and calls for regulation.

During this time, massive security arrangements are made across northern Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Haryana, and Delhi, including traffic diversions and public safety measures.

Uttar Pradesh, India, India

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