Recently in Kanpur, misinformation regarding 'I Love Muhammad' posters went viral on social media, although it was entirely false. This lie sparked tensions and protests in multiple regions across the country.
Post-Friday prayers near Bareilly's Al Hazrat Dargah, some members of the Muslim community took to the streets with 'I Love Muhammad' posters. The demonstration soon spiraled into violent altercations. Protesters hurled stones at the police, compelling them to resort to baton charges. Consequently, several arrests followed the unrest.
In parallel, Raza Academy and MSO have filed a petition in the Delhi High Court, demanding action against the registrations of cases and arrests made in support of 'I Love Muhammad.' They argue that expressing love and respect for Prophet Muhammad is a personal and religious sentiment, and should not be criminalized if done peacefully.
Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, leader of the Ittihad-e-Millat Council, had announced a protest in support of the 'I Love Muhammad' campaign. However, he had to postpone it due to the lack of administrative approval. This led to dissatisfaction amongst the people, who then gathered near the mosque and outside Raza's residence.
As the protest crowd moved towards Islamia Inter College grounds, the police attempted to intervene. At Khalil Tiraha, stone-throwing and vehicle vandalism ensued, causing chaos.
Source: aajtak
Police used minimal force to disperse the gatherings and arrested several individuals. Shops shut down amidst panic. Officials declared the incident a conspiracy, promising strict actions against those responsible.
Protests regarding 'I Love Muhammad' posters took place from Uttar Pradesh to Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. However, many claims circulated on social media are false.
Bareilly DM Avinash Singh stated that an organization had planned to submit a memorandum through a procession on Friday. The administration had already informed them in writing about the need for permission under Section 163 BNS, in effect for the entire district. Despite this, some individuals disturbed peace post-Friday prayers, leading to swift action by the Magistrate and police, ensuring order.
The DM noted, 'On first glance, this incident appears orchestrated.'
SSP Anurag Arya revealed no major disturbances during the day. Almost all instances of Friday prayers concluded safely, except for events in the Kotwali area. Around 2:30 PM, some people gathered in response to a call to assemble at Islamia grounds, pushing towards various intersections.
He added, authorities communicated at multiple meetings across locations that there was no permission granted for gathering at Islamia Ground. Despite this, attendees confronted the police and instigated unrest. With non-cooperation, the police exercised minimal necessary force to disperse the crowds.
SSP Arya ensured a detailed investigation is underway to identify the instigators for strict action.
Reports of gunfire also emerged. Any involved in orchestrating mass gatherings or misleading law enforcement will face stringent actions.
Truth:
This is false. The Kanpur police denied any FIRs for 'I Love Muhammad' posters; actions only addressed deliberate provocations.
Truth:
Also inaccurate. Actions followed were against unauthorized processions. Permission is requisite for public rallies, irrespective of religious affiliations.
Claim 3:
Police are preventing posters on homes.
Truth:
Incorrect again. Homes in many states feature 'I Love Muhammad' posters—removal occurs only in public spaces requiring permits.
Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan is a prominent Muslim leader and advocate for Sunni Muslims. He has faced allegations related to inciting violence in the past. The 2010 Bareilly riots remain a pending legal case against him.
