The Delhi High Court has dismissed a PIL challenging the Delhi government's ban on Chhath Puja celebrations at the Yamuna river banks. The court cited the high levels of pollution in the river and expressed concern for the health of devotees. Chhath Puja is a significant event for the Purvanchali community in Delhi, but the court stated that the river cannot be cleaned in one day and dismissed the PIL.
High Court Dismisses Plea to Allow Chhath Puja Celebrations at Yamuna River Banks
The Delhi High Court has recently dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the Delhi government's ban on Chhath Puja celebrations at the Yamuna river banks. The court cited the high levels of pollution in the river and expressed concern for the health of devotees.
Background
Chhath Puja is a significant festival for the Purvanchali community in Delhi, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. During the festival, devotees offer prayers to the Sun God and his wife Usha, seeking their blessings for their well-being and prosperity. Traditionally, the rituals are performed on the banks of the Ganges or Yamuna rivers.
However, in recent years, the Yamuna river in Delhi has become heavily polluted due to industrial and sewage discharge. The water quality has deteriorated to such an extent that it poses serious health risks.
Court's Reasoning
In its judgment, the Delhi High Court recognized the importance of Chhath Puja for the Purvanchali community but emphasized the need to protect the health of devotees. The court noted that the Yamuna river is not safe for bathing or performing rituals, and that allowing celebrations at the river banks could lead to serious health consequences.
The court also pointed out that the government has been working to clean the Yamuna river but that this is an ongoing process that cannot be completed overnight. Therefore, the court dismissed the PIL, stating that it would be irresponsible to allow celebrations on the river banks in their current condition.
FAQs
1. Why was Chhath Puja banned at the Yamuna river banks? A: Chhath Puja was banned due to the high levels of pollution in the Yamuna river, which poses health risks to devotees.
2. What are the alternative arrangements made by the Delhi government? A: The government has designated 1,100 artificial ponds and ghats across Delhi where devotees can perform Chhath Puja rituals.
3. Has the Yamuna river ever been cleaned before? A: Yes, the Yamuna river has undergone several cleanup efforts in the past, but water quality remains poor due to ongoing pollution.
4. How can the public contribute to cleaning the Yamuna river? A: The public can contribute by reducing water consumption, recycling waste, and advocating for stricter pollution regulations.
5. What are the penalties for violating the Chhath Puja ban? A: Violators of the ban may face fines or imprisonment.
On October 21, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will honor the sacrifices made by police personnel at the National Police Memorial on Police Commemoration Day. The Memorial serves as a symbol of the strength and selflessness of police officers who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. The central sculpture, 'Wall of Valour', and museum at the Memorial provide a sense of national identity and pride for Police Forces.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a surprise visit to INS Vikrant, India's flagship aircraft carrier, on Diwali eve 2025. This marked his first visit to the high seas to celebrate with the Navy personnel stationed there. His visit included cultural activities, a yoga session, and an inspiring address to the naval staff, further strengthening the bond between the leader and the armed forces.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with the Indian Navy on the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier stationed off the coast of Goa and Karwar. The cultural programme organized by the Navy was described by PM Modi as an unforgettable experience. He also praised the dedication and creativity of the naval personnel and highlighted the success of the armed forces in Operation Sindoor with a patriotic song "The Vow of Sindoor". In addition, PM Modi also addressed the country's security forces and lauded their efforts in combating Naxalism.
In a powerful Diwali speech on board INS Vikrant, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the coordination of India's armed forces in Operation Sindoor, which led to a swift surrender by Pakistan. He also emphasized the importance of self-reliance in strengthening the armed forces and highlighted India's progress in manufacturing essential military equipment domestically. He further announced India's goal to become a top defence exporter, with a significant increase in defence exports in the last decade.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued his tradition of celebrating Diwali with India's armed forces by visiting the INS Vikrant off the coast of Goa and Karwar. He praised the Navy personnel for their dedication towards the security of the nation and expressed his gratitude to the families of the brave soldiers. PM Modi also witnessed an impressive display of precision and prowess during an Air Power Demo on INS Vikrant, showcasing the technological excellence of the Indian Navy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali 2025 with Indian Navy personnel aboard the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, highlighting the ship's strength and psychological impact on adversaries. Commissioned in 2022, the carrier is a symbol of India's self-reliance and strategic resolve. PM Modi praised the bravery and dedication of the naval personnel, reinforcing the bond between the armed forces and the government.
The Allahabad High Court has directed the Jailer of Hisar Central Jail in Haryana to provide an explanation on how self-styled Godman Sant Rampal, currently held in the jail, is able to write and distribute books that allegedly target Hindu deities. This comes after a plea was filed by Hindu Front for Justice, calling for a ban on the books and action against Rampal. The petition alleges that the books contain offensive and provocative language and have been distributed through electronic communication platforms, causing disharmony between religious communities.
Following the latest string of scandals involving Prince Andrew, King Charles was photographed attending a Sunday morning service near his Scottish estate. The King wore a solemn expression as he drove to Crathie Kirk, displaying tension amidst a tumultuous time for the royal family. Recently, Prince Andrew announced his resignation from the Duke of York and membership of the Order of the Garter, the oldest chivalric order in the UK.
The nation's political leaders, including Prime Minister Modi, President Murmu, and Union Minister Amit Shah, took to social media to extend their warm wishes to the country on the occasion of Diwali. They highlighted the significance of the festival and urged people to celebrate it responsibly and with mutual love and harmony. EAM Jaishankar also wished everyone a happy and prosperous Diwali.
GB News journalist Nana Akua and royal fans are calling for King Charles to follow in Prince Andrew's footsteps and strip Prince Harry and Meghan Markle of their royal titles. This comes after the Duke of York voluntarily gave up his titles in light of the ongoing scrutiny surrounding his association with Jeffrey Epstein. Nana Akua ridiculed Meghan Markle's business ventures and urged the King to take away her Duchess of Sussex title in order to prevent her from setting foot in the UK again.