Bhavnagar: In response to widespread complaints of illegal collections from pilgrims, the district administration has prohibited the practice of charging Rs 20 from devotees using doli (palanquin) services at the Palitana Giriraj Jain Tirth.

Bhavnagar Additional District Magistrate N.D. Govani has issued an order under the Gujarat Police Act, 1951, banning the collection of the fee by any doli union or associated groups. The prohibition will remain in force from April 17, 2026, to May 16, 2026.

The action follows multiple complaints alleging that certain Jain sanghas and local leaders were unlawfully collecting Rs 20 from pilgrims in the name of unions. Officials clarified that such collections are not authorised and amount to the exploitation of devotees visiting the holy site.

The administration also noted that the decision aligns with the final outcome of a petition filed by a Nanubhai-led union before the Gujarat High Court.

Authorities have warned that any violation of the order will invite action under Section 131 of the Gujarat Police Act. Police personnel of the rank of Head Constable and above have been empowered to initiate criminal proceedings against offenders to ensure strict enforcement.

The move aims to safeguard pilgrims from unauthorised charges and maintain transparency at one of Gujarat’s prominent Jain pilgrimage destinations. DeshGujarat