Controversy Erupts Over Guard of Honour for Preacher in Uttar Pradesh

A guard of honour given to preacher Pundarik Goswami at Bahraich Police Lines sparked controversy. Video of the incident raised questions regarding the misuse of police resources. The police are under scrutiny, with criticism from officials and politicians about the increasing influence of religious figures in public administration.

The Uttar Pradesh Police are facing scrutiny after a guard of honour was accorded to preacher Pundarik Goswami at the Police Lines in Bahraich, sparking widespread controversy. The ceremony, recorded on video, raised questions about the misuse of police resources amid ongoing public and political criticism.

Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police has demanded an explanation from the Bahraich Superintendent of Police, Ram Nayan Singh, while highlighting that the police parade ground is strictly reserved for official functions. The incident has drawn sharp reactions from political figures, including Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who criticised the inefficacy of the police under BJP rule.

Nagina MP Chandra Shekhar Aazad condemned the event, describing it as a deviation from constitutional norms. Aazad questioned the rationale behind bestowing a guard of honour to a religious figure, suggesting it signifies the state's shift towards religious authority over constitutional duties.

(With inputs from agencies.)