Muslims protest denial of ‘I Love Muhammad (PBUH)’ rally in UP, 12 arrested
Lucknow: Authorities in Bareilly, a city in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, denied permission for a peaceful rally under the “I Love Muhammad (PBUH)” campaign, triggering widespread outrage and protests among the Muslim community.
According to Kashmir Media Service, a large number of Muslims assembled near Kotwali Mosque after Friday prayers to denounce the administration’s last-minute cancellation of the rally. The event had been announced by Maulana Tauqeer Raza, a prominent Islamic scholar. Despite full preparations, the permission was abruptly revoked just hours before the scheduled time.
As tensions escalated, people protested raising slogans against the administration’s decision. Police responded with baton charges to disperse the crowd, leading to violent clashes between demonstrators and police. At least 12 people were arrested during the confrontation.
The rally’s abrupt cancellation is being seen as part of the BJP-led UP government’s ongoing campaign to suppress Muslim identity and expression under the guise of law and order. Rights activists and local leaders have condemned the administration’s action as provocative and discriminatory, stating that the authorities were deliberately stoking unrest to marginalize Muslims and create an atmosphere of fear.
