The ‘I LOVE MOHAMMAD’ controversy, which started in Kanpur, has sparked widespread unrest and protests across several Indian cities. The Muslim community has expressed its outrage through demonstrations, carrying signs displaying the slogan. Images from locations such as Lucknow, Kanpur, Kashipur, Latur, Hyderabad, and Godhra (Gujarat) show various acts of protest, including clashes with law enforcement and vandalism.
The initial event occurred in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, where a poster with the phrase ‘I LOVE MOHAMMAD’ was displayed on September 4. This triggered opposition from Hindu groups, leading to police action and the filing of cases against 25 individuals. The police’s response ignited protests from the Muslim community, and it is now being questioned whether these events were orchestrated.
The rapid dissemination of the dispute is apparent in the incidents in Kashipur, Uttarakhand. An unauthorized procession in Kashipur triggered a volatile situation, resulting in violence, including stone-pelting, property damage, and attacks on police. This occurred without prior administrative or police authorization. The situation escalated quickly, resulting in physical confrontations.
The police estimate that 400-500 people participated in the Kashipur procession, with inflammatory speeches. Subsequent police intervention led to attacks on law enforcement and damage to government property. Government actions followed against encroachments.
Latur, Maharashtra, hosted a large rally organized by the Muslim community, which chanted ‘I Love Mohammad.’ The procession from Azamganj Golai to Town Hall attracted thousands of participants, and anti-government slogans were raised. Although authorities took security measures, the atmosphere grew increasingly charged due to the slogans.
Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, also experienced a demonstration with religious slogans, resulting in clashes between protesters and police. The use of the ‘Sar Tan Se Juda’ slogan heightened tensions, and police used a lathi charge to disperse the crowd. The incident resulted in arrests and meetings between community leaders and law enforcement officials. The city Qazi advised the public to follow legal guidelines.
The heart of the dispute rests in these three views:
* Muslim Community: ‘I love Mohammad…It’s our faith, not a crime.’
* Hindu Community: ‘Banners were used to provoke.’
* Police: ‘Public spaces require permission for gatherings.’
This has also become a political issue. AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi questioned the criminalization of expressing ‘I LOVE MOHAMMAD,’ while Nagina MP Chandrashekhar Azad emphasized the right to religious freedom.