Massive Kawan Yatra Faces Political Turmoil Over Religious Equality And Law Enforcement Disputes

The Kawan Yatra, which began from Haridwar, is now on its sixth day, drawing an unprecedented 90 lakh devotees so far, with an estimated 4 crore expected by July 23. This massive spiritual movement has turned into a political and communal flashpoint. The controversy started with disputes over nameplates and escalated to road blockades. Senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh intensified the debate by posting images accusing authorities of applying different laws for Hindus and Muslims—highlighting the arrangements for Kawan pilgrims versus the treatment of Muslims performing Namaz. This sparked fierce backlash from BJP leaders like Kapil Mishra, who clarified no highway was blocked but special routes were created to welcome pilgrims warmly. Mishra accused Congress of selective appeasement, pointing out that Muharram processions across India, which happened peacefully, did not receive similar scrutiny. The BJP claims to support Kawan Yatra openly, while critics accuse Digvijay Singh of communal bias and stirring divisions. Allegations of efforts to undermine Sanatan Dharma have also emerged along the Yatra route. Both Kawan Yatra and Muharram processions were organized with government support and security, but political narratives have deepened fault lines. The ongoing debate underscores the urgent need for communal harmony and unbiased law enforcement amid large religious gatherings.