Badrinath, Uttarakhand: New rules are set to be implemented in Badrinath Dham to regulate religious activities and maintain the sanctity of the area.
According to the Nagar Panchayat, prior permission will now be mandatory for organizing Bhagwat Katha, Bhandara, or any other religious or special events. Organizers must obtain approval either online or offline from the Panchayat. Failure to comply may result in a fine of up to ₹50,000.
In addition, bringing or consuming meat within the Badrinath area has been strictly prohibited. Anyone found violating this rule will face penalties.
The Panchayat has also imposed restrictions on the construction of temporary huts or shelters, which cannot be built without official permission.
Three New Bylaws Introduced
To ensure proper management, the Nagar Panchayat has introduced three bylaws:
- Meat Transport and Consumption Prohibition Bylaw 2026
- Temporary Shelter Control and Sanitation Bylaw
- Bhandara, Bhagwat Katha, and Special Events Regulation Bylaw
These bylaws have been drafted and sent to Roorkee for gazette notification after considering public objections and suggestions.
User Charges Introduced
Every year, during the pilgrimage season, devotees organize religious events like Bhagwat Katha and Bhandaras. While some previously took permission, many conducted events without approval.
To streamline arrangements, the Panchayat has now made permission compulsory and also introduced a user charge system along with approvals.
