Deepu, also known as Gaurav, found a bag containing ₹8 lakh on the roadside. The money belonged to Ravi Chaurasia, a public facility centre operator, who was robbed on August 20. The thieves escaped with his bike but abandoned the cash-filled bag.

Three days later, on August 24, Deepu, accompanied by some locals, went to the police station to hand over the bag. Instead of being praised for his honesty, he was detained and sent to jail.

After two weeks, he was finally released. Deepu’s Ordeal with the Police Speaking to reporters after his release, Deepu described his shocking experience. He said he had gone to fetch water when he spotted the bag. After consulting the village head, he decided to return it to the police.

However, instead of appreciating his honesty, the police allegedly took him to a jungle, returned the bag to him, recorded a video, and then detained him. His arrest was justified by IG Lucknow Range Prashant Kumar, who cited Section 317 of the BNS (dishonestly receiving or retaining stolen property), a charge that carries up to 10 years in prison.

The police claimed Deepu knew about the robbery yet held onto the money for several days. However, after investigation, he was cleared of wrongdoing and released.

Political Leaders and Public Outrage

The case has drawn strong reactions from politicians and the public. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav condemned the BJP government’s handling of the situation, demanding an impartial investigation.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also slammed the UP police, accusing them of protecting criminals while punishing the innocent. Social media users were equally outraged:

"Society doesn’t deserve good-hearted people."

"If the police had found it, they would have reported only ₹50,000."

"Our police and judicial system is a joke."

As the investigation continues, the incident raises serious questions about how honest citizens are treated by law enforcement.The Indian police have proved that they are third rate jokers in this case while sending home the message that honesty may indeed not be the best policy.