A fresh controversy has emerged after the Badrinath-Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) proposed that individuals who do not follow Sanatan traditions must submit an affidavit affirming their faith before entering key shrine areas at Badrinath Temple and Kedarnath Temple.

The proposal, cleared during a board meeting earlier this month, seeks to restrict access to temple premises—especially the sanctum sanctorum—to those identifying with Sanatan beliefs. The committee has also prepared a standard affidavit format for this purpose.

Remarks spark wider attention

BKTC chairman Hemant Dwivedi said that even public figures would be required to comply with the rule. Referring to actor Sara Ali Khan, he noted that anyone expressing devotion to Sanatan and submitting the affidavit could be permitted to offer prayers.

The development comes ahead of the annual Char Dham Yatra, which draws large numbers of pilgrims to the Himalayan shrines each year.

Political reactions divided

The proposal has quickly drawn reactions from across the political spectrum.

Arvind Sawant of the Shiv Sena (UBT) questioned the practicality of such a requirement, asking how one could obtain a “Sanatan certificate” and what defines the term itself.

Leaders from the Samajwadi Party, including Ashutosh Verma and Ramji Lal Suman, argued that religion should remain inclusive, pointing out that people across faiths often visit different places of worship. Suman cited the example of Ajmer Sharif Dargah, which sees significant participation from Hindu devotees.

Husain Dalwai of the Indian National Congress also criticised the move, raising questions about interpretations of Sanatan and its distinction from broader Hindu practices.

BJP backs proposal

Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party defended the committee’s stance. MP Kangana Ranaut described Sanatan as timeless and universal, suggesting that affirming faith should not be an issue. Bihar BJP chief Sanjay Saraogi added that pilgrimage sites like Badrinath and Kedarnath are meant for those who believe in the associated traditions, rather than being tourist destinations.

Debate likely to continue

With the pilgrimage season approaching, the proposal has opened up a broader discussion on faith, access to religious spaces, and the balance between tradition and inclusivity in India’s diverse spiritual landscape.