Akhilesh Yadav Calls for Action on Cops in Priest Attire at Temple

In a recent development that has sparked controversy, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav called for the suspension of the officer responsible for deploying police personnel disguised as priests at the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi. This move, according to Yadav, is not only condemnable but also raises questions about the appropriateness and ethics of such an order.

The decision to deploy male and female police officers in attire traditionally worn by priests was made by Varanasi Police Commissioner Mohit Agarwal. Male officers were instructed to wear dhoti-kurta, while their female counterparts donned salwar-kurta. This unconventional strategy has led to a public outcry and criticism from various quarters, including political leaders like Yadav.

Expressing his disapproval on social media platform X, Yadav questioned the legality and rationale behind such a directive. He argued that disguising policemen as priests could potentially pave the way for fraudulent activities, jeopardizing public safety and trust. Alongside his critique, Yadav shared a 35-second news report video highlighting the issue.

Defending the decision, Commissioner Agarwal explained that the unique nature of duty at the temple necessitates a different approach. The primary goal is to ensure a smooth and respectful experience for devotees visiting from far and wide. According to Agarwal, devotees tend to react more positively when guided by individuals in priestly attire rather than being pushed forward by uniformed police officers. This strategy, he noted, is part of a 'no touch policy' aimed at maintaining order and facilitating easy access for worshippers without causing offense or discomfort.

This incident has ignited a debate on the balance between security measures and cultural sensitivity, especially in places of worship where traditions hold significant importance. The effectiveness and ethical implications of such unconventional policing methods remain subjects of public discourse.