Varanasi, June 24: Five youths were arrested in Varanasi after a video showing a chicken and beer party on a boat in the Ganga near Dashashwamedh Ghat went viral on social media, police said.
The incident triggered outrage because the gathering took place on the holy river in one of Hinduism’s most sacred cities. Police also seized the boat used in the party and launched a search for three more accused who are still absconding.
The viral video allegedly showed a group of eight youths cooking chicken and consuming beer while on a boat anchored near Dashashwamedh Ghat.
Varanasi boat party video sparks outrage
Following the circulation of the video, Uttar Pradesh Police identified those involved and arrested Rahul Sahni, Ajay Sahni, Anurag Sahni, Deepak Kumar and Arun Kumar.
Police said efforts are on to trace the remaining three accused and that they would be arrested soon.
The incident has drawn sharp reactions online, with many social media users expressing anger over such activities taking place on the banks of the Ganga in Kashi, which is regarded as one of the holiest places for Hindus.
Netizens also demanded strict action to ensure that similar incidents do not recur in Varanasi and other religious locations.
Police have not yet released further details on the charges invoked against the arrested youths. However, the case has already sparked debate over conduct at religious sites and the need for stricter monitoring of activities on the riverfront.
Varanasi, also known as Kashi, attracts lakhs of pilgrims every year and holds deep religious significance. Dashashwamedh Ghat is among the most prominent ghats in the city and is a major site for rituals and the daily Ganga Aarti.
The incident has once again put the spotlight on public behaviour in sensitive religious spaces and the role of law enforcement in preventing such acts.
