Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh – On January 21, 2025, Kamran Alvi, a Muslim journalist, was arrested for allegedly posting an objectionable video related to the Maha Kumbh on social media. The video reportedly offended members of the Hindu community, alerting authorities to take swift action.
According to City Kotwali Station House Officer (SHO) Alok Mani Tripathi, “Kamran Alvi was taken into custody for posting a controversial video showing women bathing in the Ganges during the Maha Kumbh. The video hurt the sentiments of some individuals and was brought to the attention of senior authorities,” PTI reported.
A case has been filed against Alvi under Section 299 of the BNS Act, which pertains to deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings by insulting religious beliefs or symbols. The police confirmed the arrest via their official Twitter account.
The police are also investigating other individuals who may have been involved in circulating the video.
Alvi, who identifies himself as a journalist on his Facebook profile, where he has over 9,000 followers, operates a news portal named ‘Barabanki Express’.
In a separate incident, Abhishek Kumar, a resident of Boja village near Jaidpur, was also arrested for allegedly making objectionable remarks on social media about Hindu deities and the Maha Kumbh.
The Maha Kumbh, regarded as one of Hinduism’s most significant pilgrimages, began on January 13, 2025, in Prayagraj and will continue until February 26.
