Reports from Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, indicate that members of the Bajrang Dal, a Hindu right-wing organization, have been confronting unmarried couples in public parks. As Valentine’s Day draws near, these instances of what’s being called “moral policing” are becoming increasingly frequent in northern India, raising concerns about individual liberties and public safety.
Moral Policing Incidents on the Rise
Social media videos surfaced on Thursday, February 13, depicting the group using wooden sticks to intimidate couples found sitting together. These actions have ignited public anger and prompted discussions about the limits of social conservatism. The videos show individuals wearing saffron scarves, a color associated with Hinduism, approaching young couples. They are seen demanding identification and questioning the couples about their marital status.
When couples are unable to provide proof of marriage, the group reportedly resorts to threats and intimidation. This behavior is part of a broader campaign by the Bajrang Dal to discourage public displays of affection, especially during the Valentine’s Day period. These events raise critical questions about the power and influence of such groups in imposing their moral beliefs on the wider community.
Public Reaction and Concerns
One Ghaziabad resident, speaking anonymously, expressed strong disapproval. “This is unacceptable,” they stated. “Everyone deserves privacy and the freedom to express themselves, provided they are not causing harm to others.” These occurrences are not unique to Ghaziabad. Similar acts of moral policing have been reported in other regions of India, frequently targeting young people and their personal decisions. Perhaps these events will spark a debate about personal freedoms in India, much like discussions following the overturning of Roe v Wade in the United States. Visit our page about recent Supreme Court decisions for related context.
These recent incidents shine a light on the existing friction between traditional values and individual freedoms in India. While some support the Bajrang Dal’s aim to maintain cultural norms, others contend that these actions infringe upon fundamental rights. As Valentine’s Day approaches, the debate continues, creating anxiety about potential future clashes and the well-being of young couples in public areas.