In a shocking incident that has drawn widespread condemnation, five people were arrested in Uttar Pradesh for cooking chicken and hosting a liquor party on the banks of the sacred Ganga river. The arrests came after a video of the act went viral on social media, prompting swift action from local authorities.
Viral Video Triggers Action
The video, which surfaced on various social media platforms, showed a group of men openly cooking chicken and consuming alcohol on the ghats (steps leading to the river) of the Ganga in the Mirzapur district. The footage quickly spread, triggering outrage among residents and religious groups who consider the river holy.
According to police officials, the incident took place on the night of June 23 at the Ram Ghat area. The video was reportedly filmed by one of the participants and later shared online. Upon noticing the video, local police launched an investigation and identified the suspects within hours.
Arrests and Legal Action
Superintendent of Police (SP) Mirzapur, Ramakant Mishra, confirmed the arrests on June 24. “We have arrested five individuals involved in the act. They have been booked under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Uttar Pradesh Prevention of Cow Slaughter Act, as well as for violating the Prohibition of Liquor Act,” Mishra said.
The accused have been identified as Rajesh Kumar, Ravi Shankar, Vijay Singh, Anil Yadav, and Sanjay Kumar, all residents of Mirzapur district. They were produced before a local court and sent to judicial custody.
Religious Sentiments Hurt
The Ganga river is revered by millions of Hindus as a sacred water body, and activities like cooking non-vegetarian food and consuming alcohol on its banks are considered deeply offensive. Local religious leaders and environmental activists have condemned the act, calling it a violation of the river’s sanctity.
“The Ganga is not just a river; it is our mother. Such acts are an insult to our faith and culture. We demand strict punishment for the culprits,” said Mahant Rameshwar Das, a priest at a local temple.
Police Cracking Down on Similar Incidents
This is not the first such incident in Uttar Pradesh. In recent years, several cases have been reported where individuals were caught cooking meat or consuming alcohol on riverbanks, leading to arrests and legal action. The state government has repeatedly warned against such activities and has deployed special squads to monitor sensitive ghats.
SP Mishra added, “We are increasing surveillance along the Ganga ghats, especially during evenings and weekends, to prevent such incidents. Anyone found violating the law will face strict consequences.”
The arrests have sent a strong message to those who might consider similar acts. Local residents have welcomed the police action, with many expressing hope that it will deter future violations.
