Justice – Varanasi Court Denies Bail in Ganga Boat Iftar Case
Justice – The Varanasi sessions court on Wednesday refused bail to 14 individuals arrested in connection with an Iftar gathering held on a boat in the middle of the Ganga, where non-vegetarian food was allegedly consumed and discarded into the river. The court observed that the circulation of videos from the event suggested a possible intent to disturb communal harmony.
Court Reviews Arguments Before Delivering Order
All 14 accused were presented before the sessions court, where hearings took place over a two-hour period in the late morning. After considering submissions from both the defence and the prosecution, Sessions Judge Alok Kumar issued a detailed six-page order rejecting the bail applications.
In its reasoning, the court highlighted that actions which could potentially hurt religious sentiments take on greater seriousness when shared widely on social media platforms. The judge noted that such dissemination can amplify tensions and contribute to public unrest, making the matter more sensitive in nature.
Background of the Incident on March 16
The case stems from an incident reported on March 16, when a group organized an Iftar gathering on a boat stationed midstream in the Ganga. According to reports, the menu included chicken biryani along with fruits and dry fruits.
A video recording of the gathering was later uploaded and circulated online, which drew attention and criticism from certain groups. The visuals reportedly showed food being consumed and leftovers being thrown into the river, which further intensified the controversy surrounding the event.
Police Action and Charges Filed
Following the circulation of the video, a formal complaint was lodged, describing the act as highly objectionable. Acting swiftly, the police arrested all 14 individuals on March 17.
The accused were booked under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. In addition, sections of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 were invoked, citing environmental concerns linked to the alleged disposal of food waste into the river. Authorities maintained that the matter involved both legal and social dimensions that warranted strict action.
Defence and Prosecution Present Contrasting Views
During the hearing, the defence argued that the accused had been wrongly implicated. Their counsel pointed to inconsistencies in the First Information Report and emphasized the absence of direct evidence linking the individuals to any deliberate wrongdoing. They contended that the charges were exaggerated and not supported by substantial proof.
On the other hand, the prosecution opposed the bail pleas, asserting that the gathering was not a spontaneous act but a planned event. According to the prosecution, the manner in which the incident unfolded, combined with the subsequent sharing of videos, indicated a calculated attempt that could potentially disrupt communal balance.
Court Finds No Grounds for Bail
After reviewing the case diary and evaluating arguments from both sides, the court concluded that the allegations were serious enough to deny bail at this stage. It held that the material on record did not justify granting relief to the accused.
The judge further underlined that cases involving public sensitivity and possible impact on social harmony require careful consideration. Given the circumstances, the court found no merit in the bail applications and dismissed them accordingly.
The matter is expected to proceed further as investigations continue and the legal process unfolds.