With the onset of Sawan, the Kanwar Yatra has commenced with full fervor in North India, but a minor incident in Muzaffarnagar on the first day has created a tense atmosphere. On Thursday, chaos erupted in the Shiv Chowk area of the district when enraged Kanwariyas (devotees) assaulted a young biker and damaged his motorcycle after a minor collision with a Kanwar.
Kanwariyas angered by a bike collision
According to eyewitnesses, a Kanwar was slightly bumped by a motorcycle during the yatra at Shiv Chowk. Following this, the angry Kanwariyas surrounded the biker and started assaulting him. Moreover, the crowd also damaged the young man's motorcycle. Upon receiving information about the incident, the local police team arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control.
Police Officer Raju Kumar Sav informed that the police immediately intervened, safely extricated the youth from the crowd, and pacified the Kanwariyas by reasoning with them. Currently, the situation is completely under control, and additional police personnel have been deployed to deal with any untoward incidents. An investigation into the matter has also been initiated.
Yogi government's strict stance
Every year, during the month of Sawan, millions of Kanwariyas travel from Haridwar, carrying water to perform the Jalabhishek of Lord Shiva in their respective cities. This auspicious month, which began on July 11th, is expected to witness a massive influx of devotees across the state. Keeping this in mind, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had already instructed the administration to remain alert. The government has made it clear that any form of anarchy during the Kanwar Yatra will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken against those causing disturbances.
When did Sawan begin?
According to the Vedic Panchang, this year's Ashadha Purnima was celebrated on July 10th. The next day, i.e., from July 11th, the holy month of Sawan began, which will continue until August 9th. As per the Panchang, the date of Ashadha Purnima started at 2:06 am on July 11th and will continue until 2:08 am on July 12th.
This time, Sawan has a total of four Mondays, which are considered very special for the devotees of Lord Shiva. In such a situation, a huge crowd of devotees is expected to gather in major Shiva temples across the country, including Haridwar, Kashi, and Ujjain. The administration has made elaborate security arrangements in temples, Kanwar routes, and crowded areas.
