‘Weds’ couple in Agra protests dirt by standing next to a sewer

AGRA: Around 12 Agra villages celebrated Bhagwan Sharma and Usha Devi’s “wedding” on a flooded road that was bordered by waste piles and an odorous drain. Residents watched as the couple, who were celebrating their 17th anniversary, exchanged garlands in a recreation of their marriage ceremony in sewage water.

In order to get the local government’s notice, they also took photos, showcasing the 15 years of ongoing problems with “dirty water, poor roads, and the locality’s overall cleanliness”.They continued by saying that until their issues were addressed, they had made the decision to postpone celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or other occasions in the unhygienic surroundings.
Uma Devi showed up at the location on Sunday after visiting a beauty parlor and getting dressed like a new bride. When her husband Bhagwan Sharma—dressed as a groom—arrived with the “baratis,” the priest began chanting mantras while the pair garlanded one another.
After that, the ‘guests’ ate lunch while standing on the filthy, muddy road. ‘No sewer, no vote… No roads, no vote’ were the signs they held. There was a communal feast as well. “We intended to call the local government’s attention. We have tried and failed to get them to take action. That’s why we chose to demonstrate in this manner. Sharma said, “They should do something, at least now,” as he got into his vehicle to drive the “bride” home. He continued by saying that the locals had been trying unsuccessfully for a number of years to organize protests.
Sharma said that at first, they intended to commemorate their wedding anniversary in either the Maldives or Lakshadweep. But since local public authorities neglected to provide proper sewage and garbage disposal facilities, the road became a filthy drain known as “Pushpdeep” as a result. There are between 10,000 and 12,000 people living in Nagla Kali, Rajrai, Semri, who have to wade through sewage water that comes from the drains in addition to having bad roads and sanitary conditions. It’s challenging for school kids too.
DM “We have taken cognizance of the problems highlighted by the residents,” said Bhanu Chandra Goswami. Presenting a report on the situation on the ground has been assigned to a team. In accordance with the status report, further steps will be done to provide a resolution.”