New Delhi: A fact-finding report by civil society groups has revealed a nationwide crackdown on Muslims following the “I Love Muhammad” campaign, which gained traction on social media earlier this year. The report states that over 4,000 Muslims were booked and more than 200 were arrested across several states.
The campaign began as a peaceful response to derogatory remarks against Prophet Muhammad. Participants shared posts and slogans affirming their love and respect for the Prophet. However, the report notes that police in multiple states treated the campaign as a law-and-order threat. Many participants were charged with incitement, unlawful assembly, and promoting enmity.
Investigators said numerous arrests took place without due process, and minors were among those detained. The report accuses law enforcement agencies of communal bias and misuse of preventive detention laws. It also highlights that several First Information Reports lacked credible evidence.
Civil rights groups have called for the immediate release of those wrongfully detained and the withdrawal of baseless cases. They also demanded a judicial probe into the conduct of police officials and the role of state administrations.
Legal experts have warned that criminalizing peaceful religious expression undermines constitutional freedoms. Activists say the crackdown reflects a larger pattern of suppressing Muslim identity and dissent in India.
