A shocking video that went viral on social media has sparked widespread outrage and led to police action in Lucknow. The clip allegedly shows a man urinating inside the historic Bhool Bhulaiya, part of the iconic Bada Imambara complex.
Police Launch Investigation, Register FIR
In response to the public fury, the Lucknow police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against an unidentified person. The case was filed on January 4, 2026, based on a complaint by the caretaker of the Imambara complex.
Station House Officer of Chowk Police Station, Nagesh Upadhyay, confirmed the legal action. The accused has been booked under Section 298 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which deals with injuring or defiling a place of worship with intent to insult the religion of any class.
Authorities Scour CCTV Footage for Clues
Officer Upadhyay stated that while the viral video is unclear, the police are actively examining footage from CCTV cameras installed in and around the 18th-century monument. The primary goal is to identify the individual involved in the act, which was recorded against a wall inside the labyrinthine structure known as Bhool Bhulaiya.
The Bada Imambara, built in the 18th century, is not only a major tourist attraction but also holds immense religious, cultural, and historical significance for the people of Lucknow and beyond.
Public and Social Media Demand Strict Action
The video triggered a storm of condemnation online as soon as it surfaced. Citizens and netizens expressed their anger, calling the act a blatant disrespect to the heritage monument. Many demanded the strictest possible punishment for the man to set an example and deter such behavior in the future.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of protecting India's rich cultural heritage from vandalism and disrespect. The police investigation is ongoing, with authorities determined to track down the culprit based on digital evidence.
