Patna: A rightwing group staged protests in Patna on Valentine’s Day, distributing copies of the Hanuman Chalisa to couples at Buddha Smriti Park and issuing warnings against what it described as “obscenity” in public spaces.
Members of the Hindu Shiv Bhavani Sena visited parks across the city, where they approached young couples and handed them religious booklets. Videos circulating locally showed activists engaging with visitors and urging them to mark February 14 as a day of tribute to the Pulwama martyrs rather than as a celebration of romantic love.
Luv Kumar Shiv Rudra, who identified himself as the national president of the organisation, said Valentine’s Day had no place in Indian culture. “There is no mention of Valentine’s Day in our traditions. If people try to spread obscenity in society, we will not remain silent,” he said, adding that the group was monitoring public spaces across Bihar.
The organisation had earlier put up posters in several parts of Patna carrying provocative slogans targeting what it called “Babu-Sona” culture — a colloquial phrase often used for young couples. One poster described Valentine’s Day as a “day of homage to the martyrs of Pulwama” and warned that any public display of affection would be opposed “socially and morally”.
The appearance of the posters and the group’s activities in parks created a tense atmosphere in parts of the city, prompting the administration to step up surveillance.
Patna police said security had been tightened at parks, college campuses and other public places. Officials emphasised that no organisation or individual would be allowed to take the law into their own hands.
“Strict action will be taken against anyone who attempts to intimidate people or disrupt law and order,” a senior police officer said, urging citizens to report suspicious activity and avoid spreading rumours.
The district administration appealed for calm and said the situation was being closely monitored.
