Assam businessman held for hosting wife's birthday bash on Guwahati flyover

Guwahati, June 23 : A Guwahati-based businessman was arrested by Assam Police on Tuesday after videos of an alleged birthday celebration held on the newly inaugurated Kumar Bhaskar Varma Setu went viral on social media, drawing sharp criticism over the misuse of public infrastructure.

The businessman, identified as Gautam Baruah, is accused of organising the event on the bridge to celebrate his wife's birthday.

Visuals widely circulated online showed a section of the flyover transformed into a makeshift party venue, complete with a red carpet, decorative arrangements, and parked vehicles.

The videos sparked widespread outrage among netizens, many of whom questioned how a public roadway meant for commuters could be used for a private function.

Several social media users also raised concerns over possible traffic disruptions and alleged lapses in enforcement.

According to officials, the celebration caused inconvenience to motorists and affected the movement of vehicles on the recently opened bridge, a key connectivity project in the region.

Acting on the viral footage and subsequent public backlash, police registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident.

As part of the probe, police seized two vehicles allegedly used during the event. The vehicles bear registration numbers AS01GH0003 and AS01GK0772.

Officials later detained Baruah for questioning to determine the circumstances under which the celebration was organised and whether any prior permission had been obtained from the authorities for the use of the flyover.

Police said further legal action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation.

The incident has reignited debate over public discipline and accountability, with many citizens demanding strict action against those responsible.

Several residents and social media users argued that allowing private celebrations on public infrastructure sets a dangerous precedent and called for exemplary punishment to prevent similar incidents in the future.