The last rites ceremony of jailed don-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari in Ghazipur drew huge crowds, raising security concerns.
While some mourned the death of a local leader, others cited his criminal past. Additional forces were deployed to prevent any untoward incidents.
Regional parties backing Ansari called the attended numbers natural, given his influences. But critics saw it as a show of power amid ongoing investigations against him.
The atmosphere remained peaceful as emotions ran high on both sides. Cooler voices called for respecting the bereaved in their hour of grief.
Law enforcers maintained vigilance without undue interference to respect religious customs. Their prompt action helped the situation remain under control.
In the future, all social groups must come together in harmony. Continued development alone can wean people away from sinister forces over time.
