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Faith vs Covid debate: Should UP govt rethink its Kanwar Yatra decision?

At a time when PM Modi and the health ministry have been repeatedly warning against mass gatherings and about third Covid wave, two BJP-ruled states have different stands on Kanwar Yatra -- a Hindu pilgrimage that sees thousands of devotees trek hundreds of kilometres to Haridwar.

Fearing a third Covid wave, the Uttrakhand govt has banned the yatra while the Uttar Pradesh govt, which faces elections next year, is allowing it.

Meanwhile, taking suo motu cognisance, the Supreme court has termed Uttar Pradesh govt's decision to allow Kanwar Yatra disturbing and has asked the Yogi Adityanath govt to give a reply within the next 24 hours.

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