A controversy arose when Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan was asked to submit an affidavit to seek blessings at the Badrinath and Kedarnath temples. This move has sparked strong reactions, with Samajwadi Party MLA Ashutosh Verma criticizing the requirement. The Badri-Kedar Temple Committee Chairman stated that non-Hindus must submit an affidavit to visit the temples.
Highlighting Sara Ali Khan’s film on Kedarnath, MLA Verma emphasized that everyone should have the freedom to visit any place. Purnea MP, Pappu Yadav, stressed that worship is a personal belief and should not be restricted. The BJP defended the Temple Committee’s decision, emphasizing the sanctity of pilgrimage sites for followers of the Hindu religion.
BJP Spokesperson Pratul Shahdeo argued for uniform practices across religions, citing restrictions in other faiths. He maintained that Sara Ali Khan must respect the temple’s decision. The debate continues on the requirement for non-Hindus to submit affidavits at the Kedarnath and Badrinath temples.
