The Hans Tirth area in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj faces severe issues including encroachment, administrative negligence, and infringement of religious freedom.
What is Hans Tirth?
Bhagwan Hans, one of the 24 prominent incarnations of Sri Hari Vishnu, descended to enlighten His devotees with divine wisdom. Hans Tirth, the sacred birthplace of Bhagwan Hans and the founding site of the Nimbarka sect, is now under the control of disruptive elements. This revered area encompasses significant historical and religious landmarks, including the Hans Mandir, Sandhya Vat, Hans Kund, and the ninth Madhav, Shri Sankat Har Madhav.
Who is encroacher Yogi Satyanarayan Singh (Satyam)?
Yogi Satyanarayan Singh, alias Yogi Satyam, has reportedly encroached upon the holy site. Yogi Satyam, the director of the Kriya Yoga Research Center, has been accused of sexual harassment against a female member of his ashram. He is also alleged to have unlawfully encroached upon the Hans Tirth site, infringing upon religious freedoms by obstructing devotees from offering prayers and having darshan. The Satyam Kriya Yog Research Center is also accused of destroying murtis at Hans Tirth.
An undated video shared by a devotee highlights how Satyam’s organization is destroying the Hans Tirth site at night using JCBs. Night cover is being used to undertake illegal activities undetected. The site has Pauranic importance and hence it is imperative to take strict action against the encroachers and also the administrative authorities who are facilitating these illegal activities.
Encroachment by land mafia and administration’s role
The illegal encroachment of the Hans Tirth site has been an ongoing issue for several years. The matter has been under judicial review since 2012, with PIL number 37324/2012 filed in this regard. Allegations indicate that administrative collusion and undue influence have played a role in enabling these unlawful activities.
In 2012, the court issued Order 1110/2012, directing that devotees must not be barred from offering prayers and darshan at the Hans Tirth site. The administration was tasked with removing encroachments and safeguarding the area. However, due to the negligence of the Phoolpur SDM, devotees were denied access to the site on 10 October 2024, in violation of the court’s directive.
Protests by Hindu saints and devotees
The saints and sadhus of Teerthraj Prayag are leading this movement, determined to free Hans Tirth from encroachment and restore its religious significance. The protest has pressured the administration, but the events of 2024 demonstrate that complete success has not been achieved. The sadhus and saints have sent a message by performing puja outside the site, reaffirming their commitment to their faith and rights.
The Hans Tirth site must be freed from encroachment, with urgent steps taken to renovate the Hans Mandir and Hans Kund. Efforts should also focus on reestablishing Shri Sankat Har Madhav beneath the sacred Sandhya Vat and constructing a religious corridor connecting Triveni Sangam to Hans Tirth. More than a religious site, Hans Tirth is a symbol of our cultural heritage and deep faith. Preserving it is not solely the administration’s duty but a collective responsibility of every devotee. This movement, spearheaded by saints and sadhus, calls for stronger public support to restore this sacred site to its former glory.
Why Sanatan Board is necessary?
This case underscores the need for a Sanatan Board that can effectively deal with encroachments while safeguarding religious sites. The Board should comprise members from various Sampradays and lay down rules for protecting Dharma. It should also have members to liaise with government officials to ensure that court orders are implemented.
Protection of sites like Hans Tirth is important and that cannot be left at the hands of the government that’s controlling only Hindu Mandirs. This case should trigger a debate about the need for a Sanatan Board. Hopefully, Gurus, Sants, and Sadhus of various Sampradayas would put their heads together and work towards establishing the Board.
(Featured Image Source: Dainik Jagran)
