Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh witnessed large-scale protests on Friday, September 26, as thousands of people gathered outside Ala Hazrat Dargah and the residence of IMC chief Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan. Protesters held placards reading “I Love Mohammad” after the Friday prayers, while heavy security was deployed to manage the situation.
According to videos shared by ANI, police lathicharged as some protesters pelted stones. However, Inspector General Ajay Sahni clarified that the situation is under control. “There is complete peace. There is no disorder of any kind… Some miscreants tried to raise slogans during the flag march, and their arrest will be ensured,” he said.
What Sparked the ‘I Love Mohammad’ Row?
The controversy began in Kanpur earlier this month during a Barawafat procession when posters with “I Love Mohammad” were displayed. Right-wing groups objected, calling it a deviation from tradition. Police later removed posters and tents put up in Syed Nagar, saying the move threatened law and order. FIRs were registered, and the issue spread to multiple districts across Uttar Pradesh and even states like Uttarakhand and Karnataka.
In response, cleric Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan announced protests and a sit-in at Islamia Ground in Bareilly.
Owaisi’s Reaction
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi strongly criticized the objections, questioning why expressing love for Prophet Muhammad should be seen as provocative. “If there can be ‘I Love Mahadev’ groups and ‘Happy Birthday PM Modi’ posters, then why not an ‘I Love Prophet Muhammad’ poster? What is anti-national about this?” he said, citing Article 25 of the Constitution which guarantees freedom of religion.
The row continues to stir political and social debates, with protests and police action being reported across different regions.
Source: mint
