Ghaziabad: Police in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, have come under criticism after tearing down posters reading ‘I Love Muhammad’ in several localities, following complaints from Bajrang Dal activists. The move has triggered accusations of discrimination and selective enforcement from Muslim residents and rights groups.
The posters were displayed in Kidwai Nagar, Adarsh Colony, and Maliknagar. Bajrang Dal members, led by leader Madhur Nehra, approached ACP Amit Saxena, calling the posters a “conspiracy” to disturb communal peace. They warned they would remove the banners themselves if authorities did not act. Soon after, police took down the posters under pressure, with locals looking on in silence.
Muslims in the area expressed frustration at the action. “We had only expressed our love for Prophet Muhammad. What crime is that?” asked Irfan Malik of Modinagar. Social worker Mohammad Rizwan added, “Posters of Hindu gods and political leaders are displayed across Uttar Pradesh without objection. Why are Muslims alone targeted?”
In a swift response, Hindu groups pasted their own posters with slogans such as ‘I Love Yogi,’ ‘I Love Shri Ram,’ ‘I Love Mahadev,’ and ‘I Love Bulldozers.’ These banners spread quickly on social media, yet no action was taken against them. Advocates and activists noted the double standard, saying laws should apply equally to all communities.
Police confirmed the removal of the Muslim posters but gave no explanation for allowing others to remain. Many locals said the silence of authorities has deepened perceptions of bias. Despite the crackdown, Muslims in Ghaziabad vowed to continue expressing devotion to the Prophet.
