Overview
- The December 25 incident at Dashashwamedh Ghat involved Japanese visitors in Santa caps and red swimwear preparing to bathe in the Ganga.
- Locals confronted the group, demanded an apology, and one tourist was seen apologising on the steps as voices in the crowd scolded them.
- Varanasi police, via the DCP Kashi account, said the matter concluded on the spot after apologies, with no physical assault reported.
- Assistant Commissioner of Police Atul Anjaan Tripathi said it stemmed from a misunderstanding, both sides apologised, and no formal complaint was filed.
- Some outlets cited an accusation that a tourist urinated in the river, which remains unverified, as social media reactions split over propriety and hospitality.