Orry: Due to its closeness to the temple, the Union Territory administration has prohibited the consumption and sale of alcohol and non-vegetarian products in Katra town.
Violation of Liquor Ban in Holy Town
The Jammu and Kashmir Police on Monday registered an FIR against social media influencer Orhan Awatramani, popularly known as Orry, and seven others for allegedly consuming liquor in Katra. The town serves as the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in the Trikuta Hills.
Legal Action Under BNS Section 223
The accused have been booked under BNS Section 223, which pertains to disobedience of an order issued by a public servant. In Katra, the Union Territory administration has strictly prohibited the sale and consumption of liquor and non-vegetarian food due to its religious significance.
Police Crackdown After Viral Social Media Photos
According to Reasi SSP Paramvir Singh, the accused consumed liquor inside a hotel premises on Saturday, despite being explicitly informed that alcohol is banned in the town. The incident gained attention after photos went viral on social media, sparking outrage among locals.
By the time the police intervened, the accused had already left the hotel and Katra town. However, a special police team has been formed to track them down and take further action.
Zero Tolerance for Alcohol at Religious Sites
Reasi SSP Singh emphasized that strict action would be taken against violators to set an example and ensure that religious sanctity is maintained. Authorities reaffirmed their zero-tolerance policy towards drugs and alcohol at religious places.
List of Accused Individuals
Along with Orry, the seven others booked are:
- Darshan Singh
- Parth Raina
- Ritick Singh
- Rashi Dutta
- Rakshita Bhogal
- Shagun Kohli
- Anastasia Arzamaskina
Ongoing Investigation
Police teams are actively investigating the case and working to locate and apprehend the accused. The incident has raised concerns among locals, reinforcing the importance of maintaining respect for religious sentiments and regulations in pilgrimage towns.