Decorative flower pots, placed to beautify the roads for a high-profile event attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Lucknow, were stolen just hours after the function concluded. The incident, which unfolded on 26 December 2025, has sparked widespread discussion after several videos surfaced on social media platforms.
Social Media Captures the Act
The theft was captured in multiple video clips that quickly circulated online. The footage showed individuals openly making off with the potted plants that had been used for roadside decoration. Some people were seen loading the pots onto their two-wheelers, while others simply walked away carrying them on foot. The brazen nature of the act, recorded and shared by bystanders, brought immediate public attention to the event.
Timeline and Location of the Incident
The plants were installed along the routes in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, for an official event featuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Authorities had arranged the floral decorations to enhance the visual appeal of the area for the visit. However, shortly after the Prime Minister's departure, the pots began to disappear. The swiftness of the theft suggests it was a coordinated effort by multiple individuals, taking advantage of the post-event scenario.
Public Reaction and Implications
The viral videos have triggered a mix of reactions, ranging from amusement to criticism regarding public responsibility. The incident raises questions about the security and monitoring of public property deployed for such events. While the material value of the flower pots may not be exceedingly high, the act symbolizes a broader issue of civic sense and the protection of government or publicly-funded assets. Local authorities are likely reviewing the footage to identify those involved, though no official statement has been detailed in the initial reports from PTI.
This episode in Lucknow highlights a recurring challenge faced during large public gatherings and government functions, where decorative items often become targets for pilferage once the main event is over.
