On Friday, the Supreme Court asked the Uttar Pradesh government to reconsider its decision to allow Kanwar Yatra. And in the south, Kerala’s Sabarimala Temple is also opened for monthly rituals. Restrictions have been assured for both events.
But are these rituals necessary in the face of an impending third wave of Covid-19? Is Faith Above Public Health? Rajdeep Sardesai, editor of India Today TV Consulting, asked these questions on his News Today program at 9am. Excerpts:
Q: Do you think events like Kanwar Yatra and Sabarimala Darshan should be canceled in 2021?
DR.HEMANT THACKER, CONSULTANT DOCTOR & CARDIOMETABOLIC SPECIALIST, BREACH CANDY, JASLOK, BHATIA AND RELIANCE HOSPITALS, MUMBAI:
I think social distancing is the name of the game. Whether you go to college, to a restaurant, to a temple, or to a rally, when you can’t have social distancing, you are inviting the virus back into your home.
We had a really tough time in April and May. Think of the healthcare workers. I am not saying that you are removing religious zeal. But let one person represent 5,000; or bring Gangajal home. We don’t have enough vaccinations in the country yet. Forget about all functions until the vaccination count exceeds the 60% mark.
Q: Why should these events take place as they did before Covid?
RAHUL EASWAR, ACTIVIST, KERALA:
Sabarimala took the lead and said we don’t want to open temples. Even when the communist government of Kerala allowed temples to open, the temples said we don’t want to open. Followers of all communities always listen to public health experts.
We can have symbolic rituals, but don’t say we should ban them altogether. Please remember that belief is part of the public’s mental health. This is not a religious zeal; that seeks spiritual comfort.
Q: Do you think it is possible to find a middle ground?
KAMAL FARUQUI, FORMER CHAIRMAN, DELHI MINORITIES COMMISSION:
Haj is a big community. For the past two years it has been very limited with all Covid protocols. Many people used to come from India, but now hardly anyone comes.
Today was Friday. I went to the great mosque every Friday. I haven’t been there in the last few months. Even during Ramadan, people didn’t go to mosques.
I’m not criticizing any religion, but the Kumbh Snan and fake Covid tests shouldn’t have passed. I’m from UP. I ask for authority: please do not allow the Kanwar Yatra. Participants will harm themselves and their people when they return home.
Also read: Kanwar Yatra may begin in UP on July 25 amid tight Covid curbs
Also read: Kanwariyas enter Haridwar despite the ban on Yatra being quarantined for 2 weeks: Uttarakhand DGP
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