Police Arrest 14 After Viral Iftar Party Video in Varanasi

In Varanasi, police have arrested 14 individuals following the emergence of a viral video depicting an iftar party on a boat in the Ganges River. The video, which showed participants discarding leftover food into the river, sparked significant public outrage and led to legal action. Authorities confirmed that a complaint was filed, resulting in the suspects' detention. The incident has raised concerns about the sanctity of the Ganges and has prompted further investigation into the matter. Read on to learn more about the details and implications of this incident.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 15:37 IST

Police Action Following Viral Iftar Video

In Varanasi, authorities have detained 14 individuals after a video surfaced showing an iftar gathering on a boat in the Ganges River. The footage sparked public outrage, prompting police intervention. A complaint was filed by Rajat Jaiswal at the local police station, leading to the arrests. Officials confirmed that all identified suspects are now in custody, and legal proceedings are underway under relevant laws.

Details of the Incident

Assistant Commissioner of Police Vijay Pratap Singh reported that the police received information about a video circulating on social media platforms, including Instagram, depicting a group celebrating iftar by the river. The video allegedly showed participants using a pot filled with chicken biryani and discarding leftover food into the river. Following this incident, arrests were made, and further actions are being pursued.

Public Outcry and Legal Consequences

According to police, the group had gathered on a boat to break their fast. The controversy erupted when the video was recorded and shared online, quickly going viral. It reportedly showed attendees consuming chicken biryani and throwing waste, including bones, into the river, leading to significant criticism and complaints. The complaint accused the group of disrespecting the sanctity of the Ganges by discarding food waste into the water. Some viewed this act as an affront to religious sentiments, prompting immediate police action. Authorities have confirmed that cases have been registered against 14 named individuals and others who remain unidentified. Following their arrests, the suspects are being interrogated as part of the ongoing investigation.