Varanasi: A group of Japanese tourists allegedly faced harassment at the Dashashwamedh Ghat after some locals objected to their presence and attire, prompting police to initiate an inquiry based on a video of the incident.
The incident occurred on December 25 when the tourists, including women, arrived at the ghat wearing Christmas hats. As per reports, quoting eyewitnesses, some locals verbally abused the visitors and asked them to leave the area. Videos circulating on social media showed one of the tourists folding his hands and pleading, while others appeared visibly distressed.
According to witnesses, a section of people at the ghat began protesting the tourists’ presence and attempted to drive them away. “Some people started shouting at the tourists. One of them folded his hands, requesting them to stop, but the scolding continued. Someone recorded the incident, which later came to the notice of the police,” a police officer said.
Varanasi Police clarified that no physical assault took place and that no formal complaint has been filed so far. Assistant Commissioner of Police Atul Anjan Tripathi told reporters that the incident stemmed from a misunderstanding between the two sides.
“The video has been taken into account, and a local police team has been engaged to look into the matter. Both parties later spoke to each other and apologised. At present, it is unclear what triggered the dispute. If the investigation reveals any actionable facts, appropriate action will be taken,” Tripathi said.
The incident drew political reactions as well, with the Samajwadi Party targeting the state government and blaming it for what it called a deteriorating social environment.
