A youth attending a relative’s funeral was allegedly brutally assaulted by cremation workers at Manikarnika Ghat in Varanasi on Friday following a dispute over wood used for the funeral pyre.
The incident took place at one of the city’s prominent cremation grounds, where an argument reportedly broke out over the supply or use of pyre wood. The disagreement allegedly escalated, leaving the youth injured and requiring medical treatment.
Victim Admitted to BHU Trauma Centre
Following the assault, the injured youth was taken to the trauma centre at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) for treatment.
Details about the victim’s identity and the severity of his injuries were not immediately available. The incident has raised concerns about the safety of people visiting the ghat to perform last rites for their loved ones.
Six Accused Arrested
Police arrested six people on Saturday in connection with the alleged assault. The arrests came a day after the incident was reported.
Investigators are expected to examine the circumstances that led to the confrontation and establish the individual roles of those accused. The allegations against the arrested individuals will be subject to the legal process.
Incident Raises Questions Over Safety at Ghat
Manikarnika Ghat is among Varanasi’s best-known cremation grounds and sees a continuous flow of families arriving to perform the last rites of relatives.
The reported assault has brought attention to the difficulties families may face during an already emotionally distressing time. Visitors to cremation grounds rely on a safe and orderly environment to carry out funeral rituals without fear of confrontation or violence.
Further details about the police investigation and the victim’s condition are awaited.