Five Arrested After Alleged Party on Boat in River Ganga at Varanasi

A controversy erupted in Varanasi after a video circulating on social media allegedly showed a group of young men holding a party on a boat anchored in the River Ganga. The footage, which quickly went viral, drew criticism from many users who considered the act inappropriate given the religious significance of the river.

According to police, the incident took place near the famous Dashashwamedh Ghat, one of the most visited and spiritually important locations in Varanasi. The video reportedly showed several individuals cooking chicken and consuming beer while onboard the boat.

After the footage gained widespread attention online, authorities initiated an investigation to identify those involved. Based on the inquiry, police arrested five individuals identified as Rahul Sahni, Ajay Sahni, Anurag Sahni, Deepak Kumar, and Arun Kumar.

Officials said that three other suspects believed to be involved in the gathering are currently absconding. Search operations are underway, and police have stated that efforts are being made to trace and apprehend them at the earliest.

The boat used during the gathering has also been seized as part of the investigation. Authorities are examining whether any local regulations or public order laws were violated during the incident.

The episode has triggered strong reactions on social media, with many users expressing concern over activities taking place in a location regarded as sacred by millions of devotees. Several people have called for stricter monitoring and preventive measures to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.

Police have assured that appropriate action will be taken based on the findings of the ongoing investigation.