Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh – Tensions flared in parts of Kanpur during Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi celebrations earlier this month after a signboard bearing the message “I Love Mohammad” was displayed in a locality where a Ram Navami procession typically passes. Following objections and rising communal sensitivities, local police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against 25 individuals.
The incident occurred on September 4 in the Syed Nagar area under Rawatpur police jurisdiction. Residents erected a tent and installed a decorative board reading “I Love Mohammad” as part of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi festivities. However, the placement of the board — near a gate traditionally used for Hindu religious processions — triggered protests from members of the Hindu community, who alleged the display was a “new and provocative practice.”
Police Intervention and FIR
The police initially intervened to remove the board and disperse crowds from both communities to prevent escalation. However, the next day, during the Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi procession, tensions resurfaced when individuals in vehicles reportedly damaged posters linked to the Hindu community using sticks and rods.
Following video and CCTV evidence collection, an FIR was registered at the Rawatpur police station. The complaint was filed by Sub-Inspector Pankaj Sharma.
A total of 25 persons have been booked:
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9 named individuals, including: Sharafat Hussain, Shabnoor Alam, Babu Ali, Mohammad Siraj, Fazu Rahman, Ikram Ahmad, Iqbal, Bunty, and Kunnu Kabadi
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15 others remain unidentified as of now.
Charges and Investigation
The FIR invokes sections related to:
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Promoting enmity between groups on religious grounds
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Outraging religious sentiments
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Unlawful assembly and disturbance of public peace
No arrests have been made yet, but police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and video surveillance is being reviewed to identify more suspects.
Community Reactions
The FIR has drawn criticism from some Muslim organisations and religious leaders. Dargah Ala Hazrat in Bareilly issued a statement condemning the police action, calling it an attack on the right to religious expression. They urged authorities to withdraw the complaint, stating that displaying love for Prophet Muhammad SAW during Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi is a long-standing tradition.
On the other hand, local police and Hindu groups have maintained that introducing new elements — especially near sensitive locations — can disturb communal balance and should be avoided.
Official Statement
Deputy Commissioner of Police (West), Dinesh Tripathi, confirmed that the FIR was lodged based on prima facie evidence of public order violation. “Efforts were made to resolve the issue peacefully. However, the events that followed warranted legal action to maintain communal harmony,” he said.
Background
Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi marks the birth anniversary of Prophet Muhammad SAW and is observed with processions, decorations, religious gatherings, and prayers across the country. While the festival has been celebrated in Kanpur for decades, police say the manner and location of the signboard installation this year differed from earlier traditions, leading to objections.
Note: Authorities have urged both communities to maintain peace and avoid actions that may incite tensions. Efforts are ongoing to engage community leaders in dialogue and preserve harmony in the city.
