Ayodhya Civic Officials Make Street Vendors Do Handstands In Shocking Punishment | Video

Last Updated:October 13, 2025, 22:24 IST

The vendors, who sell prasada and other puja items on Ram Path near the Ram Temple, were forced to do handstands and squats

Footage of the incident, recorded by a bystander, shows at least 8 men in handstand positions, their legs resting against a wall. (Screengrab via X)

Street vendors in Ayodhya were subjected to a humiliating punishment by the city’s civic enforcement officials, sparking outrage after a video of the incident went viral on social media.

The vendors, who sell prasada and other puja items on Ram Path near the Ram Temple, were forced to do handstands and squats by members of the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation’s enforcement team.

According to an NDTV report, the incident took place at Deen Dayal Upadhyay Park in Ayodhya as part of an anti-encroachment drive. The municipal staff rounded up the vendors, took them to the park, and made them perform headstands, squats, and other physically demanding punishments under the open sun.

Footage of the incident, recorded by a bystander, shows at least eight men in handstand positions, their legs resting against a wall. Two officials in uniform, each holding a baton, are seen pacing nearby as devotional chants of “Sita Ram Jai Sita Ram" play loudly from a speaker in the background.

Eyewitnesses said the punishment went on for hours under the scorching sun, drawing strong criticism online. Many questioned the need for such harsh treatment of poor vendors who were simply trying to earn a living.

Following the backlash, Ayodhya Municipal Commissioner Jayendra Kumar confirmed that civic enforcement officials were involved and promised a full investigation. He added that statements from the affected vendors are being taken and a report is expected soon.

Congress Condemns ‘Talibani Attitude’

Meanwhile, the Congress criticised the incident, calling the civic body’s actions “Talibani". Sharing the video on X, the party slammed the treatment of the vendors and demanded accountability.

“Talibani Attitude of the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation… Talibani Attitude of the Ayodhya Municipal Corporation," the Congress wrote.

“Where a red carpet is laid out for the rich and the voice and self-respect of the poor are trampled upon. Shameful," it added.

News Desk

The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d...Read More

The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d...

Read More

News india Ayodhya Civic Officials Make Street Vendors Do Handstands In Shocking Punishment | Video

Read More