Chhath Puja allowed at Yamuna, past cases to be dropped: Delhi CM
New Delhi: Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday announced that her government will develop 17 model Chhath ghats along the Yamuna across Delhi. She also said the government will withdraw all cases registered against devotees for celebrating the festival on the riverbanks.
Speaking at a press conference, Gupta said the initiative aims to let Chhath Puja be celebrated with the same grandeur as Diwali. The festival, dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, will be observed this year from October 25 to October 28.
“In every district, we will build a model Chhath ghat. Cultural programmes in Maithili and Bhojpuri will be organised at each site,” Gupta said. She added that devotees will get all necessary facilities, including clean drinking water, tea, lighting, and washrooms.
To prepare the sites, the Delhi government launched a special cleanliness drive on Wednesday. “All our MPs, MLAs, and councillors will take part in cleaning the ghats in their respective areas,” the chief minister said.
Gupta emphasised that the government wants to provide full support to devotees. “We will ensure every facility so that Chhath Puja is celebrated just like Diwali,” she said.
The festival holds special significance for the Purvanchali community, which forms a large part of Delhi’s population. In past years, Chhath Puja was restricted on the banks of the Yamuna, and several cases were registered against devotees. Gupta announced a major policy shift this year.
“We have allowed Chhath Puja for devotees this year. We will nullify all complaints from the past and withdraw all such cases from our side,” she said.
The chief minister added that the government has received more than 1,000 applications from various puja samitis to organise the festival at different locations across the capital. This high level of participation reflects the festival’s importance and the enthusiasm of the community.
Officials said the model ghats will not only serve as venues for worship but also as cultural hubs. Traditional songs, dances, and performances will accompany the rituals. Authorities will ensure cleanliness, safety, and crowd management at all sites.
In addition to facilities and cultural programmes, the government plans to set up information booths to guide devotees and visitors. Volunteers and local representatives will help manage activities and ensure smooth celebrations.
Gupta’s announcement comes amid growing demand from communities to celebrate Chhath Puja openly and safely. By providing model ghats and necessary amenities, the government aims to institutionalise the festival in Delhi and make it more accessible.
With the preparations underway and past grievances addressed, devotees can look forward to a well-organised and joyous Chhath Puja this year.
