100 bodies found floating in Ganga, probe ordered

Policemen inspecting the site at Shafipur in Unnao district of Uttar Pradesh where dead bodies were seen floating in river Ganga on Tuesday. (Source: PTI)

At least 100 decomposed bodies, which might have been disposed in Ganga as part of last rites, surfaced after water level receded near Pariyar Ghat in Unnao district, prompting the administration to order an inquiry. Senior officials ruled out possibility of any foul play prima facie.

Dead bodies floating in river Ganga in Unnao district of Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday. (Source: PTI)

In a statement, DGP Arun Kumar Gupta said a report sent by Kanpur Zone IG has confirmed that the bodies were disposed in the river at Pariyar Ghat as part of last rites and surfaced when the water level receded. The report also stated that on an average, five to 10 bodies are cremated at the Pariyar Ghat everyday. It said that people who are unable to bear the expenses of cremation also go for the same ritual. The DGP said a detailed report has been sought from the senior officials.

District Magistrate, Unnao, Soumya Agarwal said if it isn’t possible to conduct autopsy on the bodies, then DNA profiling will be done.

Additional SP, Unnao, Ram Kishun said most bodies are highly decomposed and its difficult to even ascertain their gender. ens