Uttarakhand CM Dhami Flags ‘Spit Jihad’ Concerns Ahead of Kanwar Yatra, Orders Strict Food Safety Measures

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday directed officials to ensure the upcoming Kanwar Yatra proceeds without any incidents related to so-called “spit jihad,” a controversial term that gained traction after viral videos allegedly showed food vendors spitting into items before serving them.

Reviewing preparations for the annual pilgrimage with senior officials, Dhami said, “Efforts are on to ensure that Kanwariyas coming to Haridwar return with a good experience. Incidents of ‘spit jihad’ have happened during past Yatras. I have asked officials to ensure they are not repeated.”

The Kanwar Yatra, set to begin on July 11, draws thousands of Lord Shiva devotees from across the country who come to Haridwar to collect holy water from the Ganga.

Dhami reiterated the state government’s commitment to food hygiene and safety, pointing to a recent directive requiring all hotels, restaurants, dhabas, and roadside eateries along the Yatra route to prominently display their food licences.

“We want to ensure that no impure food is served to devotees,” he said.

He also urged pilgrims to adhere to Yatra guidelines—avoiding loud music that causes sound pollution and keeping the Kanwar size within prescribed limits.

Last year, the Uttarakhand government had issued specific food hygiene regulations to prevent incidents of contamination, including fines of up to ₹1 lakh for violations. Police verification of food handlers and mandatory CCTV surveillance in kitchens were among the measures enforced.

Meanwhile, in Meerut, district authorities have mandated that all food establishments on the Yatra route display food safety registration certificates, complete with the owner’s name and registration number, along with food item lists and pricing.

Dhami extended a warm welcome to all pilgrims and prayed for their safe journey, saying, “May Lord Shiva bless every Kanwariya and fulfil all their wishes.”