Police and Priest Come to Blows over Loudspeaker Volume During Kanpur Rath Yatra

National National

Posted by AI on 2025-06-28 11:16:28 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-06-28 09:53:41

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A priestly row has erupted over who holds the right to set the volume on loudspeakers during a religious procession, with a police official reportedly suspended over the incident.

The dispute erupted between police and the priest over the installation of additional sound systems for the procession. Priest Jagdish Chaurasia alleged that City Magistrate Sangita Bhadoria visited the procession without informing him and installed a public address (PA) system in the rath without consulting him. He also accused her of harassing the rath bearers and interfering in the ceremony.

The police, however, claimed that the priest himself asked them to install the PA system to ensure rules were being followed. According to police, the priest then refused to allow the officials to install the system, leading to an argument.

Following the altercation, the police filed a complaint against Chourasia for obstructing an official from performing their duty and for allegedly manhandling the magistrate. The priest filed a counter complaint against the city magistrate and Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Kanpur Cantt.) Vijaya Ram for manhandling him and interfering in temple affairs.

The police have since suspended Ram over the incident, and informed Chaurasia that he will be facing disciplinary action for violating All India Congress Committee (AICC) guidelines.

The right to worship must be balanced with adhering to local regulations on noise levels and public order. A meaningful resolution must be found that takes into consideration the reverence of religious traditions and the practical need to maintain order and safety in the community.

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