New Delhi: A video showing a large quantity of milk being emptied into the Narmada River has sparked widespread outrage on social media. The footage shows
devotees gathered along the riverbank as a tanker pours what is said to be around 11,000 litres of milk into the water as part of a ritual offering.
The visuals quickly went viral and led to strong criticism from users online. Many questioned the scale of the act and its impact on both the environment and society. One user wrote, “Mockery in the name of DHARMA. Aise dhongi baba desh aur dharm ko bohut nuksaan pahucha rahe hai. Inki vajah se hi dharm badnaam hai.” Another commented, “And the poor kids in schools get adulterated milk.”
Stupidity in the name of religion
Is there any sense in this?
11,000 liters of milk were poured into the Narmada River. pic.twitter.com/Hj2nULIyGc
— Bhavesh Makwana (@Bhaveshmakwana_) April 9, 2026
Social media backlash intensifies
Several users raised concerns about pollution and legal accountability. One post read, “11,000 litres of milk poured in to river Narmada for ‘purification’. If this is a sane country – criminal cases would have been booked for polluting the river.” Another user described the act as “This is bio terrorism.”
Others pointed to environmental damage and lack of action. One comment said, “The river’s natural balance will be disrupted. But no arrests will be made for causing such massive damage.” Some users broadly called the act “stupidity in the name of religion.”
Environmental concerns over milk disposal
Experts have repeatedly warned against dumping organic substances into freshwater bodies. Milk contains fats, proteins, and sugars that decompose in water. This process increases biochemical oxygen demand, which reduces oxygen levels in the water.
Lower oxygen levels can harm fish and other aquatic life. In some cases, it can also lead to algal growth and disturb the river’s ecosystem. Scientists say such practices can affect biodiversity and water quality, especially when done on a large scale.
Debate on resource use and food equity
The incident has also triggered a wider discussion on the use of essential resources like milk. Many users questioned whether such a large quantity could have been used for social welfare instead.
The video has once again brought attention to the intersection of religious practices, environmental responsibility, and resource management. Authorities have not yet issued an official statement on the incident.
