Haridwar Kumbh Mela: Debate Rages Over Banning Non-Hindu Entry for 2027 Ardh Kumbh

• A demand has emerged to ban non-Hindus, specifically Muslims, from entering the Haridwar Ardh Kumbh Mela in 2027.
• Saints like Baba Hathyogi and Prabodhanand Giri support the ban, citing past incidents and the sanctity of the Hindu festival.
• They suggest restricting entry at Har Ki Pauri, Ganga ghats, and other key areas within the Kumbh zone.
• Senior journalist Ratnamani Dobhal and social activist J.P. Badoni argue the ban is unconstitutional and promotes religious fanaticism.
• The 1916 British-era bylaw, which restricted non-Hindus from Har Ki Pauri after sunset, is cited, but the Indian Constitution is supreme.

Why It Matters: The proposed ban on non-Hindu entry to Haridwar's 2027 Ardh Kumbh sparks constitutional and religious debate.