The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders have strongly condemned the consumption of alcohol by social media influencer Orhan Awatramani, popularly known as Ori, and his associates in a Katra hotel, demanding strict action against them for hurting religious sentiments.
“Our religious sentiments have been hurt, and such drinking and immoral videos near Vaishno Devi are a disrespect to Hindus,” a senior BJP leader said, calling for stringent legal measures.
He added that the matter would not end here and would be taken to the highest offices of the country to ensure that those responsible face consequences. “The accused individuals will not be let free for hurting the sentiments of Hindus,” he asserted.
Another BJP leader from Jammu said, “Katra is not just a town; it is a sacred place where lakhs of devotees come to seek the blessings of Mata Vaishno Devi. We will not tolerate any act that disrespects our faith.”
A local VHP (Vishwa Hindu Parishad) leader also criticized the incident, stating, “This is not just about one case of alcohol consumption. It is about an attempt to vitiate the sanctity of our religious sites. The administration must take an example-setting action.”
Following public outrage, the Reasi police have registered an FIR in the matter. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Reasi, Paramvir Singh, reiterated that Katra is a sacred town where the consumption and sale of alcohol are prohibited. “The law is equal for all, whether a common citizen or an influential person,” he said.
The police have formed a special team to investigate the matter, and notices have been issued to the accused individuals to cooperate in the investigation.
“We will ensure that the sanctity of this religious town is upheld, and any violation of local laws is dealt with strictly,” SSP Singh added.
The incident has sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many calling for a complete ban on any such gatherings in Katra that might disturb its religious significance.
Local organizations have also urged the administration to tighten regulations around hotels and lodges to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Meanwhile, Hindu religious groups have planned protests and are demanding that stricter monitoring be implemented to ensure that Katra’s sacred status remains uncompromised.