NGT Bans Chanting Mantras And Ringing Bells During Amarnath Yatra, Says Might Lead To Avalanches

In a series of directions, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) today directed the Amarnath Shrine board to ensure that devotees do not chant 'mantras' or 'jaykaras' in the holy cave. It also directed that the board ensure that devotees walking on towards the cave from the last check post walk in a single file, reports ANI.

The order also says that no bells should be rung in the shrine.

Back in November, the NGT had suggested that the area around the Amarnath Shrine cave be declared a "silent zone" to prevent avalanches. It had also asked for food offerings and coconuts being thrown near and inside the cave to be stopped.

“You have allowed shops on path near the shrine. There are no proper facilities for toilets. Do you even know how humiliating this is for women. Why have you not provided proper infrastructural facilities for pilgrims. You are giving priority to commercial activities over pilgrims. This is unfair. The sanctity of the shrine has to be maintained,” a bench headed by NGT chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar said.

Swarajya was unable to independently verify the NGT’s order.