KOCHI — Fort Kochi police have registered a criminal case against a North Indian YouTuber for a video that alleged communal links and misrepresented artwork at a well-known Fort Kochi cafe, officials said on Saturday.
FIR cites attempt to foment communal friction
The First Information Report names Amrit Singh Darren and charges him under Sections 353(2) (statements conducing to public mischief) and 192 (provocation with intent to cause a riot) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). According to the FIR, the video, circulated on the creator's Instagram handle, sought to portray Kashi Art Cafe as displaying a statue of Muhammad Ali Jinnah alongside Mahatma Gandhi and alleged that the cafe served beef because of the local Muslim population.
Police said the post knowingly aimed to disturb public tranquillity and provoke communal tension in the tourist precinct of Fort Kochi. The FIR further notes that the cafe’s name — widely reported to originate from a Japanese word meaning "luminous" — was falsely linked to the Hindu pilgrimage city of Kashi in order to inflame religious sentiments.
Artwork misrepresented
Investigating officers pointed out that the video mischaracterised an artwork by noted artist Riyas Komu, which the creator presented without context to push a communal narrative. The FIR states the artistic significance of the work was omitted in the clip.
- Accused: Amrit Singh Darren
- Location targeted: Kashi Art Cafe, Fort Kochi
- Charges: Sections 353(2) and 192 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
"Kerala stands united against attempts to sow religious discord," Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan said, warning that legal measures would be strictly enforced against those who peddle hatred.
Political condemnation and local concern
The episode prompted strong condemnation from state leaders. Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan asserted that Kerala would not tolerate efforts to create communal discord. Leader of the Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan accused outside forces of attempting to poison the state’s secular fabric, posting on X that cosmopolitan destinations such as Fort Kochi represent spaces where diverse cultures coexist.
The matter has raised concern among residents and businesses in the historic Fort Kochi neighbourhood, a locality known for its mixed communities, heritage buildings and coastline that draws both domestic and international tourists. Local stakeholders have long stressed that cultural venues and cafes contribute to the area's economy and communal harmony.
Influencer response
Also involved in the public response was social media influencer Diya Krishna, who faced severe backlash after commenting in support of the video. She subsequently issued a public apology, according to reports.
Police did not immediately disclose whether more persons will be named in the FIR or whether additional legal action is being considered as the probe continues. Investigators said they will examine the full extent of the video's circulation and any coordinated attempts to inflame tensions.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Registered under | Sections 353(2) and 192, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita |
| Location | Kashi Art Cafe, Fort Kochi |
| Alleged content | Misrepresentation of artwork and claims about menu linked to religion |
As the investigation proceeds, local residents and business owners in Fort Kochi said they expect authorities to act swiftly to prevent any escalation and to reassure visitors and citizens that communal peace will be maintained. The case underscores how quickly social-media content can affect community relations in a city where tourism and cultural exchange are central to daily life.
