Uttarakhand High Court Permits Ganga Aarti to Continue Amid Dispute

In a significant ruling, the Uttarakhand High Court has allowed the continuation of the traditional Ganga aarti at the Triveni Ghat in Rishikesh, despite legal challenges from the local municipal corporation. The court’s decision, delivered by a vacation bench led by Justice Ashish Nainthani on March 15, 2024, emphasizes the cultural and civilisational importance of the ritual, which has become a key attraction for both pilgrims and tourists.

The ongoing dispute arose when the Rishikesh Municipal Corporation proposed to halt the aarti, citing the expiration of the Shri Ganga Sabha‘s registration. The corporation contended that without valid registration, the Sabha lacked the legal authority to conduct the ritual. Moreover, concerns regarding allegations of commercial exploitation and littering were raised against the organization.

In response, the Shri Ganga Sabha filed a petition challenging the municipal corporation’s order. The high court recognized the aarti as an integral part of the region’s heritage, asserting that discontinuing such a long-standing tradition without providing alternative arrangements would not serve the public interest. The court noted that this abrupt change could lead to significant inconvenience for many devotees and visitors.

While the court acknowledged that the Shri Ganga Sabha’s registration had indeed expired, it allowed the ritual to continue temporarily. The next hearing is set for March 25, 2024, and during this interim period, the municipal corporation’s order prohibiting the Sabha from conducting the aarti has been stayed.

In its ruling, the high court imposed several conditions on the Shri Ganga Sabha. The organization is prohibited from charging any entry fees or collecting donations from those who wish to participate in or observe the aarti. Additionally, the Sabha must not take commissions or rents from local vendors selling items relevant to the ritual without the municipal corporation’s permission.

The court has also placed the responsibility for maintaining cleanliness at the ghat squarely on the shoulders of the Shri Ganga Sabha. It has mandated that the organization ensure proper disposal of remnants such as flowers and oil after the aarti to safeguard the river’s environment.

This ruling highlights the delicate balance between preserving cultural practices and addressing legal and environmental concerns. The continuation of the Ganga aarti at Triveni Ghat not only reflects the ritual’s deep-rooted significance in Indian culture but also underscores the ongoing discussions about heritage and regulation in public spaces.