The incident, claimed to have occurred at the popular Maharaja Agrasen Ghat in Haridwar, has drawn widespread attention and raised concerns about religious discrimination.
Police officials in Haridwar have initiated a thorough investigation into a video circulating on social media, depicting a disturbing incident at Maharaja Agrasen Ghat, where a youth is seen allegedly attempting to drive away a group of individuals based on their non-Hindu identity. The video, which has sparked widespread concern and condemnation, prompted authorities to swiftly respond to the sensitive matter.
According to a senior official, Circle Officer Juhi Manral has been assigned to conduct the investigation due to the delicate nature of the incident. The primary objective is to ascertain the veracity of the video and identify the youth and the group of people involved. City Superintendent of Police Swatantra Kumar affirmed that necessary information is being collected, with efforts underway to gather evidence and establish a clearer understanding of the events.
Upon completion of the investigation, appropriate action will be taken in accordance with the rules and regulations governing such incidents. In the video, the youth is seen issuing threats to the other community members, asserting that only Hindus are permitted to access the Ganga Ghats. A heated exchange ensues between the youth and the young men and women in the group, with attempts made to reason with the youth, to no avail.
Commenting on the matter, Satpal Brahmachari, Congress metropolitan president and former chairman of the then Haridwar Municipality (now Municipal Corporation), emphasized the gravity of such incidents. He highlighted the existing regulations that prohibit non-Hindus from residing permanently in the Haridwar and Kankhal police station area, as well as the prohibition on the entry of non-Hindus in the Har Ki Pauri area. Notably, Maharaja Agrasen Ghat, which falls under the jurisdiction of Jwalapur Kotwali, does not impose restrictions on movement or bathing in the holy Ganges.