Bageshwar, Uttarakhand: A self-styled godman quietly constructed an unauthorized temple on government land atop the Sunderdhunga glacier, situated at over 5,000 meters (16,500 feet). Baba Yogi Chaitanya Akash claimed divine guidance for erecting the temple in this eco-sensitive area nestled high in the mountains.
Local villagers, however, expressed dismay over the construction. Mahendra Singh Dhami revealed, "The Baba convinced villagers to support the project, citing visions from Devi Bhagwati instructing him to build the temple at Devi Kund." What was once a sacred spot for pilgrims and locals has now been transformed into what villagers describe as a desecrated swimming pool, where the Baba frequents for bathing.
Prakash Kumar, another resident, criticized the construction, stating, "This is blasphemy. For generations, our deities have visited Devi Kund during the Nanda Raj Yatra every 12 years. This baba has misled villagers and defied our traditions."
Responding to the growing outcry, local authorities have initiated an investigation into the unauthorized construction. Anurag Arya, the sub-divisional magistrate of Kapkot, confirmed, "A team comprising forest department, police, and revenue officials will soon visit Devi Kund to dismantle the encroachment and take necessary action against Yogi Chaitanya. I was made aware of this issue only recently."
ND Pandey, ranger of Glacier Range, added, "We have received official communication regarding the temple's construction. A team is being dispatched to assess the situation at the location."
The incident has underscored lapses in intelligence and enforcement, particularly as the state conducts an extensive anti-encroachment campaign in sensitive areas. The ease with which unauthorized individuals operate in such regions without detection has raised significant concerns among both locals and officials.
As the investigation progresses, authorities aim to restore the sanctity of Devi Kund while addressing the broader implications of unauthorized construction in ecologically fragile zones.
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