Sambhal, August 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
A planned Kanwar Yatra by a 27-year-old Muslim woman from Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district has led to a controversy after the local administration issued a notice to her and her husband regarding her proposed participation in the pilgrimage while wearing a burqa.
Tamanna Malik, along with her husband Aman Tyagi, is preparing to undertake the Kanwar Yatra during the ongoing Sawan month. The couple was served a show-cause notice by the SDM Court in Sambhal after authorities learnt about their plans.
Tamanna had earlier participated in the Kanwar Yatra during Maha Shivratri in February this year. She had travelled from Haridwar carrying a Kanwar filled with holy water and later offered it at a temple in Sambhal.
According to Tamanna, she undertook the pilgrimage after making a personal vow that she and Aman would perform the Kanwar Yatra together after their marriage. A video showing her offering jalabhishek while wearing a burqa had gone viral on social media, attracting widespread attention.
Following the circulation of the video, Tamanna had also filed an FIR alleging that she received threats through social media platforms. The couple had maintained that their faith and beliefs were beyond religious boundaries.
Speaking to IANS, Aman Tyagi said the administration had objected to Tamanna wearing a burqa during the pilgrimage and had issued a notice stating that she could face a fine of Rs 20,000 if she proceeded contrary to the directions.
“We received a notice from the SDM and the administration stating that if we go to Haridwar, my wife Tamanna Malik cannot travel wearing a burqa. It was effectively a restriction,” Aman said.
He said the couple approached the SDM’s office to submit their response and argued that the Constitution provides citizens the freedom to choose their attire.
“Our country is governed by the Constitution, and nowhere does it say that women’s rights can be curtailed or that women can be stopped from wearing any particular attire. They should be free to wear whatever they wish,” he added.
Aman said the couple would continue with their plan to visit Haridwar and questioned the reason behind the notice.
“We will definitely go to Haridwar tomorrow. Last time also we performed Kanwar Yatra and several Hindus welcomed and supported us. Even today, many people want us to perform the Yatra,” he said.
He also alleged selective action by authorities while referring to other incidents involving religious sentiments.
Meanwhile, Sambhal SDM Vikas Chandra clarified that the notice issued to the couple was only a preventive measure intended to maintain law and order.
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