The unrest sparked in Kanpur over the ‘I LOVE MOHAMMAD’ posters has spread to multiple cities, with alarming scenes emerging from various locations. The Muslim community has expressed its anger through demonstrations, carrying placards bearing the phrase. These protests, marked by clashes and confrontations, have been reported in cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, Kashipur, Latur, Hyderabad, and even Godhra in Gujarat. In several instances, protesters have engaged in acts of public disorder, including altercations with police and damaging their uniforms.
The initial incident occurred in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, on September 4, where a poster displaying ‘I LOVE MOHAMMAD’ was erected. Hindu organizations reportedly voiced their opposition, prompting the UP police to take action and file cases against 25 individuals. This action fueled resentment within the Muslim community, leading to widespread protests. Questions arise whether these protests were part of a larger, coordinated effort.
The conflict’s spread from Kanpur to other parts of India is notable. Kashipur, Uttarakhand, witnessed a sudden escalation, with an unauthorized procession attempting to incite violence. The situation involved stone-pelting, vandalism, and attacks on the police, which were swiftly quelled. The procession, comprised of individuals carrying ‘I Love Mohammad’ banners, caught authorities off guard due to a lack of prior notification and permission. The situation quickly deteriorated as the crowd grew, culminating in physical confrontations.
The police estimate that 400-500 people participated in the procession, with inflammatory speeches delivered. Upon intervention, the crowd targeted law enforcement and damaged government property. The local government subsequently took action against encroachments in the area.
In Latur, Maharashtra, the Muslim community organized a large rally, chanting ‘I Love Mohammad.’ The procession, which began from Azamganj Golai and concluded at the Town Hall, involved thousands of participants. Notably, the rally was marked by slogans critical of the UP government. While the authorities implemented security measures, the atmosphere grew heated due to the chants.
Unnao, Uttar Pradesh, also experienced a demonstration where religious slogans were raised, leading to clashes. The protest, which included the ‘Sar Tan Se Juda’ slogan, resulted in a tense situation. The police resorted to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd. Law enforcement was heavily deployed, and five arrests were made. Following the incident, a meeting between the Muslim community and police officials was held, and the city Qazi urged adherence to legal boundaries.
The core of the dispute involves three perspectives:
* The Muslim perspective: ‘I love Mohammad… This is our faith, not a crime.’
* The Hindu perspective: ‘An attempt to provoke was made by using banners.’
* The police perspective: ‘The streets are for everyone; permission is required.’
The controversy has also drawn political reactions. AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi questioned the criminalization of ‘I LOVE MOHAMMAD,’ while Nagina MP Chandrashekhar Azad highlighted the constitutional right to religious freedom.