In recent times, there have been instances wherein the Hindu festivals and religious events, celebrated for centuries as symbols of India's rich cultural heritage, are being targeted by disruptive elements. This comes as pilgrims aboard the Tapti-Ganga Express, en route to the sacred Mahakumbh Mela, the world's largest religious gathering taking place in Prayagraj, were attacked with stones near Jalgaon, Maharashtra.
What happened on Tapti-Ganga Express?Pilgrims heading for the Mahakumbh shared videos on social media, such as this viral video, revealing their harrowing ordeal. The victims pleaded with the Prime Minister, Railway Minister, and state authorities to ensure security for trains carrying pilgrims to the event.
One passenger recounted, "This is the first train carrying devotees for the royal bath at Mahakumbh. We were suddenly attacked with stones and had the glass shattered inward, it could have injured us severely. We demand immediate security measures."
This is not an isolated incident. Similar attacks occurred in 2024 when anti-social elements targeted trains carrying pilgrims to Ayodhya and other religious destinations, often in areas with illegal encroachments near railway lines.
The attack on Mahakumbh pilgrims reminds of the infamous 2002 Godhra train burning, where 59 karsevaks returning from Ayodhya were brutally killed. These attacks appear to be part of a calculated effort to target Hindu religious gatherings. From stone pelting on religious processions during Ram Navami, Hanuman Jayanti and Durga Puja immersions to communal violence triggered during Brijmandal Yatra in Haryana's Nuh district, the trend is happening rapidly.
Moreover, the role of illegal encroachments along railway lines, often dominated by specific communities, adds another layer of concern. These areas have become hubs for anti-social activities, posing significant security risks to national infrastructure and communal harmony.
This paints a disturbing picture of growing intolerance and targeted violence.