A video showing a police officer allegedly mixing ash into food at a bhandara (community feast) during the Maha Kumbh Mela has sparked outrage, leading to his suspension on Thursday.
The clip, which surfaced on social media, shows the officer adding ash to food being prepared over a stove. Reacting swiftly, the authorities suspended Soraon Station House Officer (SHO) Brijesh Kumar Tiwari.
"This is unacceptable. We come here for faith and devotion, and such actions are a betrayal of trust," said Ramprasad Gupta, a pilgrim from Madhya Pradesh who witnessed the incident.
The video was widely shared, with one user tagging the DCP Ganga Nagar's account on social media platform X and demanding strict action.
The official handle of DCP Ganga Nagar responded: "Taking cognizance of the matter, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Ganga Nagar) has suspended the Soraon SHO based on a report from ACP Soraon. Departmental proceedings are underway."
Political leaders also weighed in, with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav sharing the video and condemning the act.
"It is unfortunate that the good efforts of those arranging food and water for devotees at the Maha Kumbh are being sabotaged due to political animosity. The public should take notice!" he posted.
Many devotees expressed their anger, calling for stricter measures to prevent such incidents.
"We are here to seek blessings, not to be humiliated like this. The police should be protecting us, not disrespecting our faith," said Anita Verma, a visitor from Varanasi.
With millions of pilgrims gathering in Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh, several organisations have set up bhandaras to provide free meals to devotees. "Such incidents shake our faith, but we won't let them ruin the spirit of service," said Rahul Tiwari, a volunteer at one of the community kitchens.
The incident has ignited a debate over discipline in the police force and the need for greater vigilance during the religious congregation.
