Katra, Jammu & Kashmir — A fresh controversy has emerged in Katra, the base camp for the revered Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, after an alleged incident of alcohol consumption at a local hotel led to police action. Among those named in the FIR is Orhan Awatramani, popularly known as “Orry,” along with seven others.
The incident reportedly took place on March 15, when the group allegedly consumed alcohol within the hotel premises, despite strict prohibitions in the sacred town. Authorities swiftly registered FIR No. 72/25 after a complaint was filed, citing a violation of local customs and laws aimed at preserving the sanctity of the religious site.
SSP Reasi, Paramvir Singh (JKPS), took immediate cognizance of the matter and instructed law enforcement to take stringent action. “Strict instructions were passed to ensure zero tolerance for acts that hurt the religious sentiments of devotees,” a police spokesperson stated.
The Vaishno Devi pilgrimage holds immense spiritual significance, drawing millions of devotees annually. As part of maintaining the sanctity of the area, alcohol and non-vegetarian food are strictly prohibited in and around Katra.
The incident has sparked widespread debate on the enforcement of cultural norms and the responsibility of visitors to respect local traditions. While some argue for stricter measures to prevent such incidents, others believe there should be a balanced approach that involves awareness and education.
As investigations continue, the case has become a focal point for discussions about preserving religious traditions in pilgrimage sites and ensuring that personal behavior aligns with the values of sacred spaces.
