Overview

• Lucknow Police have opened an investigation and are examining video evidence to identify participants, with no arrests made so far.
• Organisers admitted they underestimated attendance and pledged to overhaul crowd-control measures at future horticultural events.
• Viral clips showed attendees stuffing over 800 display varieties into bags and clothing, triggering widespread online criticism and satire.
• Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had inaugurated the July 4–6 festival at Avadh Shilpgram to showcase regional mango heritage.
• The looting controversy has reignited debate over public behaviour at large cultural gatherings and highlighted gaps in event planning.