The Uttar Pradesh Police has taken action against 17 social media handles for allegedly selling photos and videos of women taking ritual baths at Sangam during the ongoing Mahakumbh festival. The accounts are accused of violating women's privacy and dignity by recording and monetising their private moments.
According to police officials, certain miscreants disguised as photographers have been reportedly capturing and misusing photos and videos of women during their sacred dips. The content is being shared and sold on various social media platforms and Telegram channels.
DIG Vaibhav Krishna of Prayagraj Mahakumbh Mela said, "We are identifying such social media profiles and Telegram groups. FIRs are being registered against the perpetrators." He emphasised that strict legal action would be taken against those involved in posting content that violates women's privacy and dignity.
Reports suggest that some individuals have been photographing and filming women not only during their ritual baths but also while they change clothes. These materials are allegedly being used as teasers to sell other objectionable content online.
Earlier it was reported that several viral videos and photos being circulated as current Kumbh footage are actually old and unrelated to Prayagraj or the Kumbh Mela. However, miscreants are deliberately spreading them with false claims.
The issue has gained significant attention as large numbers of women and girls continue to visit Sangam for the sacred dip during Mahakumbh. The police have assured heightened vigilance and urged devotees to report any suspicious activity immediately.
The authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the matter, focusing on identifying and prosecuting individuals involved in this exploitation of religious devotees.
