Akhilesh Yadav slams BJP after viral video shows beer party on Ganga boat in Varanasi

Police in Varanasi have arrested a man after a viral video showed youths drinking beer and dancing on a boat in the Ganga river , an incident that sparked public criticism and political reactions.

The arrested accused has been identified as Arjun Rajbhar , a 25-year-old resident of Nagwa in the Assi area who works decorating boats. Police said he was traced and detained after the video circulated widely on social media.

According to officials, the footage shows a group of youths consuming alcohol and dancing to DJ music on a boat while travelling along the river. The boat was reportedly moving from Sheetla Ghat towards the Sheetla Mata temple in Adalhat in neighbouring Mirzapur when the video was recorded.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Gaurav Kumar said a complaint was received at the Bhelupur police station , following which a case was registered. “The viral video showed two men consuming intoxicants while riding a boat in the river. One of them has been identified and arrested,” Kumar said, adding that police are working to identify the others seen in the clip.

The incident has drawn criticism as the Ganga is considered sacred by millions of devotees. Members of the boatmen community and local organisations have also condemned the act and demanded strict action.

Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav criticised the ruling government while reacting to the arrest. “ Is this something new? People are consuming beer everywhere, ” Yadav told reporters in Lucknow.

He added, “ Since the Bharatiya Janata Party government came to power, people are drinking more because they are under stress and facing difficulties. ”

Police said the investigation is continuing and further legal action may follow once the remaining individuals in the video are identified.