The Samajwadi Party (SP) intends to lodge a complaint with the Election Commission regarding the deployment of police officers dressed as priests within the Kashi Vishwanath Dham (KVD) Temple, alleging electoral motives behind the move.
The move to station officers in traditional Dhoti Kurta attire was intended to enhance the comfort of worshippers within the temple complex.
Police Commissioner Mohit Aggarwal issued directives for officers to don priestly garb to facilitate the convenience and cooperation of devotees within the sanctum sanctorum of the Shri Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Manoj Rai Dhupchandi, SP State Spokesperson, raised concerns about the new deployment arrangement, stating, "The Model Code of Conduct is in effect, and these actions appear to be driven by electoral motives. The arbitrary use of police resources is inappropriate. The dignity of law enforcement in a public setting is maintained through their official uniform."
In a statement posted on social media platform X, SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav questioned the legitimacy of the directive, asking, “According to which ‘police manual’, is it correct for policemen to be dressed as priests? Those who give such orders should be suspended. If any thug takes advantage of this tomorrow and robs the innocent public, what answer will the Uttar Pradesh administration give?”
The deployment of officers in religious attire has sparked debate over the appropriate role of law enforcement in sacred spaces during election season, with political parties closely scrutinizing such actions for potential electoral implications.
Follow us
