Many areas will be declared as “Holy Sanatan Nagari” to ban the entry of non-Hindus in Uttarakhand.

By Sandy Verma On Jan 14, 2026

There is a strong debate on stopping the entry of non-Hindus in Uttarakhand, but There is currently no state-level law in place. Right now it is limited only to the proposal and demand of local saints. The main discussion is on declaring Haridwar’s Kumbh area, Har Ki Paidi and Ganga Ghats as ‘Holy Sanatan Nagri’.

These days, political and social atmosphere is rising in Uttarakhand regarding the entry ban of non-Hindus at religious places. Many types of claims are being made on social media, but what is the reality? Has the government really taken any decision?

Know here the complete analysis of this entire controversy, the government’s stance and the current situation.

1. Haridwar Kumbh Kshetra: What is the government’s plan?

Pushkar Singh Dhami Government of Haridwar Kumbh Area And it is considering the possibility of restricting the entry of non-Hindus at 105 Ganga ghats near Rishikesh.

Proposal: According to official sources, this entire area “Holy Eternal City” Study is underway on declaring.
present situation: Till now no final notification has been issued in this regard.

2. Sri Ganga Sabha and the Rule of 1916

the one who manages every household Sri Ganga Sabha Has demanded that the Kumbh area be officially declared as ‘Hindu area’.

Reference to history: Ganga Sabha has referred to the Municipal Rules of 1916. He says that even during the British period, entry of non-Hindus was prohibited within the radius of 7-8 kilometers of Har Ki Paidi.
Demand: The Sabha wants that the same old tradition should now be restored by giving it a legal form.

3. Why did the controversy increase? (recent events)

Recently, this controversy deepened after two youths roamed around in Har Ki Pauri dressed like ‘Sheikhs’. After this the Sant Samaj demanded strict action from the police administration.

Social media claims: Claims that only Hindus will get entry in the Ardh Kumbh of 2027 are going viral.
Truth: The government has just talked about “serious consideration” and “study” and has not passed any order.

4. Is this legally possible?

Legal experts have divided opinions on this proposal.

Constitutional question: Stopping people of a particular religion from public places can be considered against the fundamental rights of the Indian Constitution (equality and freedom of movement).
Legal Challenge: If the government makes such a rule, it can be challenged in the court. However, religious institutions have limited authority to make their own internal rules.
Oppose: Congress Vice President Suryakant Dhasmana has called it against the “Ganga-Jamuni culture”.

5. Debate on Kedarnath and Chardham

Not only Haridwar, but Kedarnath And similar demands have been raised regarding Chardham also.

In 2025, a BJP MLA had demanded a ban on the entry of non-Hindus into Kedarnath.
The allegation was that some people were violating the sanctity.
“No entry for non-Hindus” boards were put up in some temples near Dehradun, on which the police had also registered an FIR.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Has the entry of non-Hindus been banned in the temples of Uttarakhand? A: No, till now no such uniform law has been implemented for the entire state or Chardham. This is just an offer and demand right now.

Q: Can’t non-Hindus visit Har Ki Pauri? A: There is no official government ban at present, but Shri Ganga Sabha and local saints are demanding restoration of the old rules (1916) there.

Q: What does the holy eternal city mean? A: This means declaring the area as a special religious zone, where there can be a complete ban on meat, liquor and non-Hindu activities/entry.

This issue is still in Uttarakhand ‘Under Consideration’ Is in category. The government is trying to strike a balance between the sentiments of the saints and the rules of the Constitution.