Tilakwada, Narmada: A row has erupted during the ongoing Uttara Vahini Narmada Parikrama in Narmada, with the administration’s decision to make online registration mandatory triggering protests, logistical disruptions, and widespread discontent among devotees, volunteers, and local residents. Meanwhile, given the large number of devotees, as seen every year, long queues have been witnessed at ghats, with people waiting to catch boats.

Protests and Tension in Tilakwada

The situation escalated in Tilakwada, where villagers, seers, and volunteers staged protests against the compulsory online registration system. Demonstrators raised slogans and, in some instances, tore down government banners, expressing anger over restrictions that they claim are disrupting a centuries-old religious tradition.

Tensions further flared when volunteers heading to serve at the 24-hour community kitchen (bhandara) at the renowned Maninageshwar temple were stopped due to lack of registration. In response, several volunteers sat on the road chanting religious slogans such as “Narmada Mata Ki Jai” and “Jai Shri Ram,” leading to traffic disruptions and a brief standoff with authorities. The situation was eventually brought under control after intervention by local leaders and officials.

Online Registration Triggers Widespread Discontent

At the heart of the controversy is the administration’s decision to mandate online registration, particularly during weekends and peak days. While officials argue that the move is necessary to manage overwhelming crowds, critics say it has created significant barriers, especially for poor, elderly, and rural pilgrims.

Many rural and tribal devotees undertaking the parikrama, traditionally completed on foot, do not have access to smartphones, internet connectivity, or the technical know-how required for digital registration. As a result, several pilgrims have reportedly been stopped en route, questioned by police, or even prevented from continuing their journey.

Religious leaders and locals argue that imposing such a digital requirement on a faith-based, traditional pilgrimage undermines its inclusive nature. Comparisons are being drawn with large-scale religious gatherings like the Kumbh Mela, where crores of devotees participate without mandatory registration.

Cap on Registrations and Administrative Gaps

Adding to the frustration is a reported cap of around 25,000 registrations, which many claim is grossly inadequate given the massive turnout. The pilgrimage, which spans approximately 17–21 km in its Uttara Vahini stretch, attracts lakhs of devotees from across the country, including elderly individuals, saints and seers, and tribal families.

Local residents have also flagged issues such as:

• Inadequate boat services for river crossing between Rengan and Rampura
• Poor parking management and lack of clear directions
• Administrative mismanagement leading to overcrowding and confusion

Repeated concerns over boat availability have been a persistent issue, with devotees often facing long delays and unsafe conditions while crossing the river.

 

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Volunteers Demand Easier Access

Seva organisations have also raised concerns, stating that volunteers engaged in daily service activities are being unnecessarily harassed due to the registration requirement. They have demanded the issuance of permanent ID cards for regular volunteers to ensure uninterrupted service during the pilgrimage.

Administration Defends Move, Issues Appeal

The district administration, however, has defended the decision, stating that the mandatory registration system has been introduced to prevent chaos witnessed during recent weekends, when lakhs of devotees gather.

Officials, including Kevadia DYSP Sanjay Sharma, have urged devotees to:

• Complete online registration before undertaking the parikrama
• Avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays
• Prefer weekdays for a smoother and safer experience

Authorities maintain that these measures are aimed at ensuring safety, better crowd control, and improved facilities for pilgrims.

Pilgrim Numbers Dip Amid Confusion

Interestingly, following the implementation of the registration system, a decline in the number of pilgrims has been observed during midweek days. Many devotees have reportedly postponed or cancelled their plans due to confusion, technical hurdles, and fear of being stopped midway.

The unfolding situation highlights a growing conflict between administrative regulation and religious tradition. Although the Gujarat government has spent around ₹10 crore on facilities for the pilgrimage, including accommodation and boats, issues have emerged due to the heavy influx of devotees.

With lakhs of more devotees expected in the coming days, all eyes are now on the administration to find a balanced solution that ensures both safety and the sanctity of this deeply revered pilgrimage. DeshGujarat