New Delhi: A new rule has been announced for the famous pilgrimage sites Badrinath Temple and Kedarnath Temple. The temple committee has decided that people who are not Hindus will not be allowed to enter the temples from this year’s pilgrimage season.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the temple management board. Committee chairman Hemant Dwivedi said the rule was approved by all members.
Rule will start with the Char Dham Yatra
Officials said the doors of Kedarnath temple will open for devotees on April 22, and Badrinath temple will open on April 23. The new rule will start from the same time.
Under this rule, non-Hindus will not be allowed to enter the temple area or the inner sanctum where prayers are performed.
Step taken to protect religious traditions
Temple authorities said the decision was taken to maintain the religious traditions and sacred atmosphere of these temples. Every year, lakhs of devotees visit these holy places for prayers.
Linked to old religious tradition
According to the committee, this practice is believed to be connected with traditions from the time of Adi Shankaracharya, who is known for reviving and organizing these important pilgrimage sites.
Officials also said the decision follows the rights given under Article 26 of the Constitution of India, which allows religious institutions to manage their own traditions and practices.