Akhada Parishad Advises ID Cards for Maha Kumbh Attendees

Prayagraj: Mahant Hari Giri, general secretary of the Akhada Parishad and patron of the Panchdashnam Juna Akhara, has urged the Yogi Adityanath government to mandate identity cards for all attendees of the Maha Kumbh. He aims to prevent the entry of impostors and anti-religious elements posing as Babas or Kalpvasis.

He suggested that the government issue identity cards to saints and Kalpvasis attending the Maha Kumbh. Giri emphasized the prevalence of fake identity cards and proposed that Aadhar cards, voter ID cards, or any other identity. Certified by a gazetted officer, councilor, village head, panchayat secretary, or competent officer should be mandatory.

Ensure verification before allocating space at Maha Kumbh

Giri added that before the fair administration or a saint allots a camp, attendees should submit a copy of their certified identity card for verification if required. He urged the Yogi government and Mahakumbh administration to facilitate online registration for devotees. Given the expected turnout of 40 crore devotees from across India and the world.

To maintain order and prevent violence, Giri stressed the necessity of verified IDs for all attendees. Juna Akhara has instructed Mahamandaleshwars, saints, and mahatmas to collect names and identity cards of all visiting devotees in advance. Similar discussions are ongoing with other Akharas, including Niranjani. Additionally, arrangements for identity cards are being made for employees on duty, saints, mahatmas, Kalpvasis, and common devotees at the Maha Kumbh.

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