A controversial incident involving police recruits according a formal 'guard of honour' to a religious preacher in Uttar Pradesh has triggered a major political storm and prompted intervention from the state's top police officer.
Viral Video and Immediate Backlash
The controversy erupted on Thursday, December 19, 2024, after videos from Bahraich district went viral on social media. The footage showed police recruits participating in a march-past and salute for a kathavachak, or religious storyteller, Acharya Pundreek Goswami. The preacher was seen being welcomed by Bahraich Superintendent of Police RN Singh and other officers on a red carpet, with recruits allegedly saluting him. The event was reported to have taken place on Wednesday.
The visual spectacle drew sharp condemnation from opposition leaders. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav hit out at the BJP government, accusing it of being engrossed in "a game of salute" while crime and mafia rule flourished. He publicly questioned whether any authority would take cognizance of the matter.
Echoing the sentiment, Azad Samaj Party president and Lok Sabha MP Chandrashekhar termed the incident an "attack on the Constitution". He emphasized that the salute and parade are solemn symbols of state sovereignty and should not be misused.
Police Response and Justification
Facing intense criticism, the Uttar Pradesh Police headquarters swiftly reacted. Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Krishna sought a written explanation from the Bahraich Superintendent of Police for the "unauthorized use of the police parade ground."
In an official post on social media platform X, the UP Police clarified the rules. The police parade ground must be used strictly as per prescribed norms, solely for police training, discipline, and official ceremonies. The action was taken due to the violation of these norms.
However, the Bahraich police initially issued a statement attempting to justify the event. They stated that Acharya Pundreek Goswami was invited to counsel recruits and conduct meditation and Yoga workshops. This intervention was reportedly arranged because 28 recruits had resigned, citing depression caused by the rigorous mental and physical stress of training.
The local police claimed the preacher's address was "helpful" as it relieved stress and helped build the recruits' confidence and devotion to duty.
Political Fallout and Constitutional Concerns
The incident quickly transcended administrative scrutiny, becoming a focal point for political opposition. The core criticism revolved around the alleged blurring of lines between state function and religious activity, and the misuse of official police protocol.
Akhilesh Yadav's criticism framed the event as symptomatic of the government's misplaced priorities. Chandrashekhar's strong wording, labeling it a constitutional affront, underscored the seriousness with which the symbols of state authority are viewed in a secular democracy.
The DGP's directive for an explanation indicates the senior leadership's attempt to control the narrative and enforce discipline. The episode highlights the ongoing sensitivity around the conduct of police forces and the use of their ceremonial traditions in Uttar Pradesh.
