Police have arrested 14 Muslim youths in a new controversy in Varanasi. The case involves Iftar on a boat in the river Ganga near Panchganga Ghat. After the video went viral, a complaint was lodged alleging that non-vegetarian leftovers after Iftar were thrown into the Ganga River, offending Hindu sentiments.
According to police, a case has been registered at the Kotwali police station and the act is alleged to be inciting religious sentiments. All 14 people were in custody by Tuesday. The incident has sparked a heated debate on social media.
On the one hand, some say that the river Ganga is ‘Mother Ganga’ and no pollution, regardless of religion, should be tolerated. They support strict action. But on the other hand, many are questioning why action is being taken only in this case?
People say that every year, large amounts of sewage, worship materials, and idols are discharged into the Ganga, polluting the river. Why doesn’t it look so strict then? Is the law equal for all, or does it only apply in select cases?
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This incident is not only a matter of law, but also indicates a growing polarization in society. In a religious city like Varanasi, such incidents could make the atmosphere more sensitive.
Now the biggest question is whether the administration will really take equal action against all forms of pollution to keep the Ganga clean, or will the debate continue to be divided on the basis of religion?
The case is no longer limited to arrests, but is giving a new twist to the debate on faith, equality and justice in the country.
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