Junagadh, Gujarat: A controversial decision by Harsh Sanghvi regarding the Junagadh Mahashivratri Mela has sparked widespread criticism. According to reports, this year devotees will be forced to walk eight kilometers to reach the fairgrounds, a stark departure from past traditions where devotees’ vehicles were allowed unhindered access.
AAP MLA Gopal Italia has strongly condemned the decision, calling it anti-Hindu. He stated, “In the past, vehicles carrying devotees were never stopped, but this time, a situation has been created that forces 10 lakh devotees to walk eight kilometers just to provide additional facilities to VVIPs. I would like to request that this decision be withdrawn immediately.”
➡️ જૂનાગઢ મહાશિવરાત્રી મેળામાં હર્ષ સંઘવી દ્વારા હિન્દુ વિરોધી નિર્ણય લેવામાં આવ્યો છે તેના કારણે ૧૦ લાખ શ્રદ્ધાળુઓએ ફરજીયાત આઠ કિલોમીટર ચાલવું પડશે.
➡️ ભૂતકાળમાં ક્યારેય પણ મેળામાં આવતા શ્રદ્ધાળુઓના વાહનોને અટકાવવામાં નથી આવ્યા પરંતુ આ વખતે VVIP લોકોને વધુ સુવિધા પુરી પાડવા… pic.twitter.com/zbxj0ZYtxw
— AAP Gujarat (@AAPGujarat) February 7, 2026
Critics argue that the measure disproportionately affects ordinary devotees, including the elderly and differently-abled, while catering primarily to high-profile guests. Many have expressed concerns that the decision undermines the sanctity of the festival and shows blatant disregard for public convenience.
Public Outrage Grows as VVIP Privileges Take Priority Over Devotees at Junagadh Mela
Social media platforms are witnessing a surge of outrage, with devotees and citizens criticizing the authorities for prioritizing VVIP privileges over religious sentiments and traditional practices. Observers warn that the move could lead to protests and large-scale dissatisfaction during the festival.
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This incident has raised broader questions about political priorities and the treatment of religious devotees during major cultural events, with public sentiment overwhelmingly against the decision.