Lucknow: Tensions erupted in the Uttar Pradesh capital as Muslim women staged a protest outside the Vidhan Bhavan against FIRs filed over boards displaying “I Love Muhammad” during Milad-un-Nabi celebrations. The demonstrators, led by Sumaiya Rana, daughter of poet Munawwar Rana, gathered with placards bearing the same slogan and raised slogans in support of Prophet Muhammad.
Police stopped the protestors at Gate No. 4 of Vidhan Bhavan, which led to heated arguments and scuffles before the women were detained and taken to Eco Garden. They were released later in the day.
Speaking to reporters, Sumaiya Rana described the FIRs as unconstitutional and discriminatory. She accused the state government of targeting Muslims and undermining India’s secular framework. “It is deeply disturbing that Muslims are being booked for writing the Prophet’s name. This government is trying to instill fear in Muslims, but we will not be intimidated,” she said.
Rana also charged the administration with double standards, arguing that law and order measures were selectively applied against one community. She warned that if police continued such actions, they would be seen as acting on communal lines.
The protest highlighted concerns among Muslims about restrictions on religious expression. Rana noted that Prophet Muhammad is recognized worldwide for his message of peace and respect, questioning why reverence to him was being criminalized in India. The women protestors declared that they would continue to speak out against what they viewed as unjust actions by the authorities.
