The Delhi High Court recently dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that sought permission to conduct Chhath Puja celebrations along the banks of the Yamuna River. The court’s decision reinforces restrictions aimed at preserving the river’s ecological balance and mitigating pollution concerns related to large gatherings on the riverbanks.
Background: Chhath Puja and Environmental Concerns
Chhath Puja is a significant festival, especially in North India, involving rituals that require worshippers to immerse themselves in water and make offerings to the Sun god. However, environmental activists and agencies have raised concerns over the impact of such gatherings on the Yamuna’s already precarious environmental health.
Court’s Rationale
The Delhi High Court highlighted that conducting large religious gatherings along the riverbanks could further degrade the Yamuna’s water quality, which is already severely polluted. The court noted the availability of alternative designated sites across Delhi for Chhath Puja, ensuring devotees can observe the festival without harming the river’s ecosystem.
Existing Measures
The Delhi government has provided multiple alternative locations for the celebration of Chhath Puja, equipped with facilities for devotees to perform rituals safely and in a controlled environment. The administration emphasized that these arrangements aim to balance religious practices with the protection of natural resources.
Conclusion
The High Court’s dismissal of the PIL underscores a commitment to environmental preservation, urging citizens to observe Chhath Puja responsibly.