SC TOOK SUO MOTO COGNIZANCE ON UP GOVERNMENT'S DECISION TO ALLOW KANWAR YATRA

On Wednesday, the SC took Suo moto cognizance of the Uttar Pradesh Government's decision to allow Kanwar Yatra amidst the covid 19 Pandemic. The SC bench headed by Justice Rohinton Nariman stated that we cannot compromise even a bit when the 3rd wave of Covid 19 is staring at us.

The SC issued notice to the UP government and the Union government seeking their response on the matter. Additionally, posted the case on July 16th for further consideration.

The SC took Suo moto cognizance after the Indian Express published a report on July 14th stating that while the Uttarakhand Government suspended the Kanwar Yatra due to the fear of Covid 19, neighbouring state UP is still moving ahead with the annual rituals.

The top court said that "We wish to know the stand of the government. Citizens of India are completely perplexed; they don't know what is going on. Therefore, the relevant secretary, UOI, shall respond to the report. As the Yatra will take off from July 25th, it is important to fix it before it starts."

Author: Papiha Ghoshal