Lucknow: Police across several districts in Uttar Pradesh have arrested ten Muslims for displaying posters and sharing videos bearing the slogan “I Love Muhammad.” The authorities claimed the displays could disturb public order and provoke communal tension.
The arrests took place in different parts of the state, where individuals had either put up devotional posters or uploaded short videos on social media expressing love for Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The content was peaceful, devotional, and featured no inflammatory language, according to families and witnesses.
Police registered cases under sections related to promoting enmity between groups and disturbing communal harmony. Officials said the preventive action was taken to avoid possible unrest. However, community members questioned the decision, calling it discriminatory and excessive.
Families of those arrested said their relatives were simply expressing faith and devotion. Activists and rights groups condemned the police response, stating that criminalizing such expression undermines the constitutional right to freedom of religion and speech.
Legal aid has been arranged for some detainees who plan to challenge the charges. Civil rights observers see the incident as part of a growing trend in which public displays of Muslim identity are being policed in North India.
The arrests have renewed debate on the limits of religious expression and the balance between maintaining public order and upholding fundamental freedoms.
