A guard of honour extended by the Uttar Pradesh Police to a religious figure has ignited a fierce political controversy, leading to direct intervention from the state's top police officer. The incident, which took place in Bahraich district, involved police personnel presenting ceremonial honours to Kathavachak Pundrik Goswami.
The Incident That Sparked the Fury
The controversy erupted on December 19, 2025, after a video surfaced showing police officials in Bahraich according a formal guard of honour to Pundrik Goswami. The visuals quickly went viral across social media platforms, drawing sharp criticism from opposition parties and sections of the public. The act was perceived by many as a blurring of lines between state machinery and religious figures.
In the video, police personnel are seen standing in formation as Goswami walks past them, a protocol typically reserved for dignitaries like visiting ministers, senior bureaucrats, or military officers. The location was identified as being within the Bahraich district of Uttar Pradesh.
Immediate Repercussions and Official Action
The political firestorm prompted an immediate response from the highest levels of the police hierarchy. Taking serious note of the incident, Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Vijay Kumar summoned the Bahraich Superintendent of Police (SP) to the state headquarters in Lucknow.
The summoning is seen as a direct consequence of the backlash and an attempt to address the breach of protocol. The DGP's office sought a detailed explanation from the district police chief regarding the circumstances that led to the guard of honour being presented to the Kathavachak. The police department has not yet issued an official statement justifying the action.
Political Reactions and the Escalating Storm
The incident swiftly moved from social media outrage to the political arena. Opposition parties seized upon the event, accusing the state police of acting under political pressure and violating established norms. They argued that the police force, a symbol of the secular state, should not be involved in honouring religious personalities in an official capacity.
The ruling party's political opponents have used this event to question the governance and administrative priorities in Uttar Pradesh. The controversy has added fuel to the ongoing political discourse in the state, with debates centering on the appropriate role of government institutions.
As of now, the reasons behind the police's decision to accord this honour remain unclear. Questions are being raised about whether it was a spontaneous act by local police or followed a directive from higher authorities. The explanation from the summoned Bahraich SP is awaited, which will likely determine the next steps, including potential disciplinary action.
This incident underscores the sensitive nature of protocol in a diverse democracy like India and highlights how quickly such actions can escalate into major political controversies. The outcome of the DGP's inquiry will be closely watched for its implications on police discipline and protocol adherence in Uttar Pradesh.
