The Delhi High Court recently denied a request for permission to perform Chhath Puja rituals on the banks of the Yamuna River, citing the severe pollution levels in the water. The Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking permission was filed by the Purvanchal Nav Nirman Sansthan, challenging the restrictions on conducting the ritual at the riverbanks.
The petitioners argued that the ban on using the Yamuna for the religious event, originally put in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, has now been reimposed, hindering devotees from observing the tradition in their preferred location.
The court, however, pointed to the hazardous state of the Yamuna River as a primary concern. The Chief Justice of Delhi highlighted recent incidents where individuals who had bathed in the river experienced health complications and required hospitalisation.
The bench stated that exposing people to such toxic water could pose serious health risks. It also underscored that the decision to restrict access to the Yamuna for the Chhath Puja was made to ensure public safety, noting the visibly contaminated state of the river, which was recently seen covered with layers of toxic foam.
The Delhi government informed the court that nearly 1,000 alternative sites have been arranged across the city for Chhath Puja celebrations. These designated locations, equipped with adequate facilities, were set up to allow devotees to observe the ritual in a safe and suitable environment. The court reiterated that these provisions offer a viable option for people to perform the puja without endangering their health.
For many, Chhath Puja is a cherished festival that honours the Sun God and promotes environmental awareness. Traditionally, devotees perform rituals and take a holy bath in rivers.
However, the severe pollution in the Yamuna has sparked concern among citizens and authorities alike. The recent visuals of toxic foam floating on the river near Kalindi Kunj underscored the urgent need to address the pollution crisis that has plagued the Yamuna for years.
The sight of the polluted river has, unfortunately, cast a shadow over the celebrations for some devotees, who feel that their connection to the ritual’s traditional essence has been impacted.
The foam, caused by pollutants such as industrial waste and untreated sewage, reflects a long-standing environmental issue. Over time, efforts have been made to clean the Yamuna, yet the problem persists, raising questions about the effectiveness of current interventions.
In response to the ban, officials highlighted that public health remains a priority. According to the court, the high pollution levels make it unsafe for devotees to immerse themselves in the Yamuna’s water. The government’s initiative to provide alternative locations aims to respect the religious practices of Chhath Puja while minimising potential health hazards.
While some devotees may feel disappointed by the restrictions, others have acknowledged the necessity of such measures to safeguard public health. The government and the court urged citizens to cooperate by using the arranged sites, as these areas have been selected specifically to support safe and unhindered worship.
The Delhi High Court's ruling reflects a balance between respecting religious sentiments and upholding public safety, given the Yamuna’s current condition.
As the four-day Chhath Puja festival unfolds, devotees are adapting to the alternative arrangements, which allow them to maintain their traditions without putting themselves at risk.
The decision also serves as a reminder of the pressing environmental issues affecting India’s sacred rivers, underscoring the need for sustainable efforts to restore and protect these vital water bodies.
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