Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Allows Chhath Puja on Yamuna Bank, Past Cases to be Withdrawn

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday declared that devotees will be allowed to celebrate Chhath Puja along the Yamuna riverbanks this year. In a major move, her government also plans to withdraw all cases previously filed against individuals who performed the festival on the river.

17 Model Ghats to Be Developed Across Delhi

Addressing a press conference, CM Gupta said the government intends to establish 17 model Chhath ghats along the Yamuna. She emphasized that the aim is to let Chhath Puja be celebrated in Delhi with the same enthusiasm and grandeur as Diwali.

Chhath Puja, a four-day festival dedicated to the Sun God and Chhathi Maiya, is scheduled to take place from October 25 to October 28 this year. The festival holds particular importance for the Purvanchali community, which forms a significant part of Delhi's population.

"In the past, Chhath Puja was not allowed on the banks of the Yamuna but we have allowed it for the devotees this year. We will nullify all the complaints of the past years and withdraw all such cases from our side," Gupta said.

Applications Flood In from Puja Committees

The government has received over 1,000 applications from various puja samitis seeking permission to hold Chhath Puja at different locations in the capital. "In every district, a model Chhath ghat will be made and cultural programmes in Maithili and Bhojpuri will be organised at each site," the CM said.

All essential facilities including clean drinking water, tea, lighting, and washrooms will be arranged at the ghats to ensure devotees can celebrate comfortably.

Special Cleanliness Drive Ahead of Festival

In preparation for the festivities, the Delhi government launched a cleanliness drive on Wednesday to ready the ghats. "All our MPs, MLAs and councillors will participate in cleaning the ghats in their respective areas," Gupta said.

"We will ensure every facility for our devotees so that Chhath Puja is celebrated the same way as Diwali," she added.