Congress Accuses Uttarakhand BJP Govt of Promoting VIP Culture

Fast Summary:

• Incident: The Congress criticized the BJP government of Uttarakhand for allegedly promoting VIP culture after Chairman of badri-Kedar Temple committee (BKTC), Hemant Dwivedi, used a helicopter to visit Kedarnath despite weather-related suspension of such services.
• Date & Organizer: The chopper ride, organized by Heritage Aviation, took place on July 14, 2025.
• Safety Protocol Breach: According to reports, shuttle services were suspended in the Kedar valley due to weather conditions per DGCA guidelines. Only flights deemed safe under suitable weather conditions were permitted.
• Investigation Ordered: Uttarakhand Civil Aviation Development Authority (UCADA) has launched an inquiry into the matter and issued a notice to Heritage Aviation.
• Political Reaction: Congress spokesperson Garima Dasauni accused BKTC’s president of rule violations and supporting VIP culture. She claimed this demonstrated unequal enforcement of laws (“one country, two rules”) and risked public safety during char dham yatra.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

This incident raises questions about adherence to aviation safety protocols during challenging weather conditions in Uttarakhand’s pilgrimage zones. While ensuring pilgrim welfare remains critical, deviations from established rules can invite scrutiny over governance practices and fairness. A proper investigation by UCADA should clarify whether exceptions were granted or rules violated.

From a broader viewpoint, alleged promotion of VIP culture risks eroding public trust in institutions tasked with safeguarding equal opportunities for citizens on religious pilgrimages. This highlights a pressing need for systemic reforms ensuring that all individuals-irrespective of status-are subject to uniform safety regulations amid high-pressure travel periods like char dham yatra.

Read more at: The Hindu