DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
JAMMU, Mar 23
The revered “Har Ki Pauri” (also known as Chhota Haridwar) temple, situated on the banks of the Surya Putri Tawi river in Jammu, the city renowned for its temples, is currently facing the detrimental effects of illegal mining activities. This concerning issue has been brought to light by Manish Sahni, the Chief of Shiv Sena (UBT) for the Jammu-Kashmir unit.
In a recent media briefing held at the party office, Manish Sahni voiced a stern warning to the illegal mining mafia operating in the vicinity of the Surya Putri Tawi river. He emphasized the need for immediate cessation of such unlawful practices that are causing harm to the revered religious site.
Sahni disclosed that upon receiving information regarding the illicit activities, he personally led a team to inspect the revered “Har Ki Pauri” temple just two days ago. Shockingly, it was discovered that the flow of water in the Tawi river near the temple complex was being severely disrupted due to the ongoing illegal mining operations in close proximity. Consequently, the dryness around the temple stairs has caused anguish among thousands of devout worshippers and religious tourists visiting the site. Sahni further revealed the frustration of the temple’s Mahant, Shri Mahadev Saraswati ji, who has been compelled to expend a significant amount, approximately 20-25 thousand rupees per month, to divert the water flow towards the temple using heavy machinery like JCB. Additionally, the deplorable condition of the roads leading to Har Ki Pauri was also highlighted during the inspection.
Expressing dismay, Sahni questioned the adequacy of the security arrangements for the temple, located on the outskirts of the city and along the banks of the Tawi river. He called upon the administration to take immediate and decisive action to address these pressing concerns. Sahni, in a firm tone, warned that any further disregard for the religious sentiments of the devotees will not be tolerated. He stressed that if the illegal mining activities persist unchecked in the Surya Putri Tawi river, the members of Shiv Sena will take matters into their own hands. During this course of action, he emphasized that the administration would be held accountable for any potential escalation of law and order issues. Present at the briefing were prominent party members, including President of the Mehila Wing, Meenakshi Chhibber, General Secretary Vikas Bakshi, Vice President Sanjeev Kohli, and Secretary Rajesh Handa. Their presence underscores the collective commitment of Shiv Sena to safeguarding the sanctity of religious sites and upholding the rule of law in the region.
