Strong Opposition to Liquor Shop Opening in Gangotri Dham

The recent decision by the Excise Department to issue a tender for opening a liquor shop in Harsil, a key stop on the way to Gangotri Dham, has sparked strong opposition from local residents and members of Strong Opposition to Liquor Shop Opening in Gangotri Dham

The recent decision by the Excise Department to issue a tender for opening a liquor shop in Harsil, a key stop on the way to Gangotri Dham, has sparked strong opposition from local residents and members of the Panch Mandir Committee. Protesting this move, villagers and temple priests submitted a memorandum to the District Magistrate, urging authorities to withdraw the proposal.

Local Community Raises Concerns

The Harsil Valley, known for its serene environment and spiritual significance, is considered a sacred region. On Friday, a group of villagers and pilgrimage priests gathered at the district office to voice their objections, emphasizing that allowing liquor sales in the region contradicts the principles of religious tourism.

Residents pointed out that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently visited Harsil and Mukhba, promising to promote religious and spiritual tourism in the region. However, they argue that the government’s move to open liquor shops in Harsil and Sankari goes against this vision and threatens to disrupt the area’s sacred ambiance.

Impact on Religious Tourism and Law & Order

The Gangotri Temple Committee highlighted that Mukhba, located just three kilometers from Harsil, serves as the winter abode of Goddess Ganga. Devotees visit the temple throughout the year, making it a significant religious site. Opening a liquor shop in Harsil, a major stop for pilgrims, could tarnish the region’s religious sanctity and send the wrong message to tourists.

Committee members warned that alcohol sales in the vicinity of a major pilgrimage destination could lead to an increase in unruly behavior among visitors, affecting the overall law-and-order situation. The growing presence of intoxicated individuals in the area may also disrupt the peaceful atmosphere that draws thousands of devotees every year.

Women Protest Against Liquor Shop

In the latest developments from Uttarakhand, women from eight villages of the Upla Taknaur area in Uttarkashi district met with Gangotri MLA Suresh Chauhan, demanding the closure of the liquor shop in Harsil. In response, the MLA spoke to the District Magistrate and assured the women that no liquor outlet would be allowed to open in the area.

MLA Suresh Chauhan emphasized that with thousands of pilgrims visiting the region, the sale of liquor should be completely stopped. He urged all stakeholders to work together to maintain the sanctity of the area and respect its religious significance.

Call for Immediate Action

Local leaders and temple authorities have urged the government to reconsider its decision and respect the spiritual importance of Gangotri Dham. They argue that instead of encouraging liquor consumption, authorities should focus on improving tourism infrastructure and maintaining the sanctity of the region.

As protests continue to gain momentum, the coming days will determine whether the administration will heed the demands of the locals and withdraw the liquor shop proposal. Until then, the opposition remains steadfast, calling for the preservation of Gangotri’s religious and cultural heritage.