The Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against social media influencer Orhan Awatramani, popularly known as “Orry,” and seven others for allegedly consuming alcohol and non-vegetarian food in Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. These actions are in direct violation of the region’s religious sanctity and existing prohibitory orders.
In This Article:
Details of the Violation
The accused were reportedly found consuming alcohol and non-vegetarian food within the jurisdiction of Katra, where such activities are strictly prohibited to maintain the area’s religious sanctity. The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Katra, Piyush Dhotra, had issued a prohibition order banning the sale, possession, and consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food within the sub-division, including the 12-kilometer track leading to the shrine. This order was enacted under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and has been extended periodically to ensure compliance.
Official Responses
Following the incident, the Jammu and Kashmir Police emphasized that such acts violate the religious sanctity of the region and have vowed to deal with offenders firmly.
Additionally, the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Katra responded to the incident, reiterating that alcohol is strictly prohibited in the region. The association emphasized that both hotel authorities and visitors must adhere to the established norms to maintain the sanctity of the holy town.
Legal Implications
The FIR against Orry and the seven others underscores the strict enforcement of regulations in and around Katra to preserve the religious sanctity of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. Violations of these prohibitory orders can lead to legal action, including fines and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.
The incident involving Orhan Awatramani and his associates serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting local customs and regulations, especially in areas of religious significance. Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir remain vigilant in enforcing these norms to ensure that the sanctity of such revered sites is upheld.
By – Kartik
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