The Allahabad High Court is set to hear the bail applications on April 27 in a controversial case linked to an Iftar gathering held on the Ganga river in Varanasi. The case involves allegations that food waste, including non-vegetarian leftovers, was thrown into the river during the event.
Case Background and Allegations
According to reports, the incident took place during the holy month of Ramzan when a group led by Danish organised an Iftar party on a boat in the Ganga. It is alleged that participants consumed chicken biryani and later disposed of bones and food waste into the river.
A video of the gathering was reportedly recorded and shared on social media, which triggered outrage and led to police action. Following this, an FIR was registered at the Kotwali police station in Varanasi, and the accused were arrested.
Authorities have treated the matter seriously, citing concerns over environmental harm and religious sentiments associated with the river.
Court Proceedings
Justice Vivek Verma passed the order scheduling the bail hearing. During proceedings on April 24, the court was informed that a similar bail application filed by a co-accused in the same case had already been listed for April 27. To ensure consistency, the court decided to hear all related bail pleas on the same date.
Earlier, in a related development, a lower court had rejected bail, describing the offence as serious.
Legal and Social Sensitivity
The case has drawn attention due to the intersection of environmental concerns and the religious significance of the Ganga river. The Ganga is considered holy by millions, and any act perceived as polluting it often leads to strong reactions.
At the same time, questions have also been raised in public discourse about the evidence, intent, and whether the response has been proportionate.
What Lies Ahead
The upcoming hearing on April 27 will be crucial in determining whether the accused are granted bail. The court is expected to consider the nature of the allegations, available evidence, and arguments presented by both sides before delivering its decision.
