Cooch Behar23 minutes ago
Tension erupted in West Bengal’s Cooch Behar district after an objectionable video allegedly involving a monk from a private ashram in Sitai went viral on social media, triggering anger among local residents.
The ashram, located in the Sitai area, was reportedly involved in educational and welfare activities for underprivileged children. According to allegations emerging after the video surfaced online, the head monk, referred to locally as Maharaj, was allegedly seen engaging in an objectionable act with a young woman.
The video reportedly spread rapidly across social media platforms, leading to growing outrage in the area. Local residents expressed anger and demanded strict action against the monk.
Residents surround ashram, demanding action
On Sunday morning, a group of angry residents reportedly gathered outside the ashram and staged a protest. Protesters demanded the immediate arrest of the accused monk and sought a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the viral video.
The situation created tension in the area, prompting police to reach the spot. Officers intervened to prevent the situation from escalating and to avoid any untoward incident.
Police detain accused monk
Following the protest and the growing tension, police detained the monk. An investigation has been initiated to establish the circumstances surrounding the video and determine whether any offence was committed.
Police are also expected to examine the authenticity and circumstances of the video as part of the investigation.
Investigation underway into viral video
The incident has drawn considerable attention locally because of the ashram’s reported association with welfare activities involving underprivileged children. Authorities are now examining the allegations and the circumstances that led to the video being circulated online.
Police officials have urged people not to spread unverified information or circulate the video further while the investigation is underway.
