Lucknow: A Muslim youth in Uttar Pradesh was fined by local police after displaying a sticker on his motorcycle that read “I love Muhammad.” Officers reportedly termed the sticker “objectionable” and imposed a fine, claiming it could disturb public order.
The youth was stopped during a routine vehicle check. Police stated the sticker might “provoke communal sentiments,” though no First Information Report (FIR) was registered. The challan was issued under general traffic and public order provisions. The police have not clarified the exact rule under which the action was taken.
The move has sparked sharp criticism from civil rights activists and social media users. Many described the police response as discriminatory and an infringement on the right to religious expression. They pointed out that stickers with devotional slogans from other faiths are commonly seen on vehicles but rarely attract penalties.
Legal experts have also questioned the basis of the fine, saying there is no clear law prohibiting such personal religious expression. Several community leaders have demanded that the fine be revoked and accountability fixed for the arbitrary action.
The incident has reignited debate about selective policing and the treatment of Muslim youth in Uttar Pradesh. Calls have grown for consistent enforcement of law and respect for religious freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution.
