Chhath Puja Protest: Dry Ghats Spark Outrage in Delhi

Devotees in Delhi's Geeta Colony protested after the AAP government's artificial ghats for Chhath Puja rituals remained dry. Frustrated, they expressed their inability to perform Sandhya Puja and offered 'Arghya' to Lord Surya. The lack of water at the ghats led to widespread discontent.

In a dramatic turn of events, devotees in Delhi's Geeta Colony took to the streets on Thursday, expressing deep frustration over the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government's failure to supply water at the artificial ghats constructed for Chhath Puja rituals. The dry ghats hindered them from performing Sandhya Puja, an essential part of their religious observance, causing widespread outrage.

One devotee, upon reaching the barren ghat, questioned the Delhi government's preparations, lamenting, "Why did they bother creating these facilities if they weren't going to provide water? We could have just celebrated at home." The palpable anger was echoed by others who suggested performing rituals on rooftops using tubs filled with water, showing their resentment towards what they considered a governmental oversight.

The escalation in protests came despite earlier assurances from leaders like CM Atishi, who had emphasized the creation of these ghats to help Purvanchali residents maintain a connection to their cultural roots. As the festival spans four days, devotees are keen to continue their religious practices, yet find themselves at an impasse due to logistical shortfalls, casting a shadow over the traditional celebrations.

(With inputs from agencies.)