In a bizarre and widely shared incident, social media platforms are flooded with videos showing people in Lucknow allegedly stealing decorative flower pots placed along roadsides shortly after **Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rashtra Prerna Sthal, a new national memorial in Uttar Pradesh’s capital.
The incident, which took place within hours of the high-profile inauguration ceremony, has triggered widespread discussion online about civic responsibility, public behaviour, and the protection of public assets.
What Happened After the Inauguration?
On December 25, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Rashtra Prerna Sthal in Lucknow, a sprawling memorial complex dedicated to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and other national leaders. The event was attended by senior dignitaries, and roads leading to the memorial were adorned with decorative flower pots and plants to enhance the visual appeal for attendees and visitors.
However, shortly after the programme concluded and officials departed, multiple videos began circulating online showing individuals removing these flower pots and carrying them away.
In several clips, people are seen lifting the potted plants and loading them onto two-wheelers, while others are captured carrying them on foot. Some videos even show individuals with political flags walking away with multiple pots, stirring greater attention and reactions from netizens.
A Wider Theft Than Initially Reported
According to additional reports circulating on social platforms, the scale of the incident appears to be significant. One online comment thread suggested that thousands of flower pots — valued at several lakh rupees — were taken from the area within 24 hours of the event, prompting authorities to deploy additional security personnel to safeguard remaining assets.
The purchase and placement of these decorative pots were part of the event’s horticulture expenses and inspired discussions about wasteful expenditure versus respect for public property.
Civic Sense and Public Reaction
The viral videos have sparked furious debates across social media, with many users criticising the perpetrators for their actions and lamenting what they describe as a lack of civic sense. Many commentators argued that removing public decorations — which were meant to beautify the city for a national event — reflects poorly on citizens’ respect for communal property.
Some social media users highlighted ironies in the incident, noting that such thefts are not unique to Lucknow, but have occurred in other cities after civic events are concluded.
Others pointed out that similar incidents had been referenced by local public figures in the past, where expensive decorative items meant for state ceremonies were removed soon after installation — a practice that raises questions about preparation and protection for temporary civic beautification projects.
Official and Administrative Response
The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) and local municipal bodies are yet to issue a detailed official statement regarding potential legal actions or investigations connected to the theft of these potted plants. Reports on online platforms suggest that additional security personnel have been stationed at the Rashtra Prerna Sthal and surrounding areas to prevent further removal of decorative items.
The incident also raises broader concerns about post-event arrangements and long-term maintenance of civic infrastructure deployed for official functions.
What Is Rashtra Prerna Sthal?
The Rashtra Prerna Sthal is a newly inaugurated national memorial located in Lucknow, spread over several acres and dedicated to the legacy of former Prime Ministers and national leaders, including Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It was inaugurated on December 25, 2025, on Vajpayee’s birth anniversary, and represents a significant cultural and historical addition to Uttar Pradesh’s public landmarks.
Since its opening, the site has been open to visitors, and the Uttar Pradesh government has outlined plans for ongoing maintenance and a governing committee to oversee its operation.
What This Means Going Forward
The viral spread of these videos underscores how quickly local events and civic behaviour can capture national attention in the age of social media. What was intended as an inspiring civic celebration — the inauguration of a national memorial — has become associated with a conversation about civic values, public property theft, and community behaviour. Citizens, commentators, and civic authorities are now confronting broader questions about how collective responsibility plays out in everyday life.
As investigations continue and public debate persists, the flower pot incident will likely remain a talking point in discussions about urban governance and civic etiquette in India.
