The video of the incident went viral on social media showing Karni Sewa leader promising the gathering to help get them "freedom from Muslims"
ALIGARH — Uttar Pradesh Police have arrested Karni Sena’s Aligarh district president, Sachin Raghav, after a video showing him making offensive and allegedly threatening remarks against Muslims went viral on social media.
The clip, recorded near a statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, shows Raghav raising an objectionable slogan during a gathering organised by Karni Sena workers to pay tribute to the freedom fighter. The remarks drew sharp criticism online, with many calling them provocative and communal.
“Give me blood, and I will give you freedom from mullahs” exhorted Sachin Raghav in Hindi as seen in the video. This video was filmed when he was garlanding the statue of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
Police said swift action was taken to prevent any disturbance to public order. A case was registered at the Civil Lines police station under Sections 196(1), 351(2) and 353(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with Section 67(A) of the Information Technology Act. Raghav was arrested within hours of the video surfacing and subsequently sent to jail.
Civil Lines Circle Officer Third Sarvam Singh said the police acted promptly after taking note of the video. “A video circulating on social media came to our notice. We registered a case under relevant sections and arrested the accused. He is being produced before the court, and further legal action is underway,” he said.
According to police, the video was recorded in the Quarsi area, near Maharana Pratap Enclave A1 in Swarn Jayanti Nagar, and was shared online by one of those present at the gathering.
Members of the local Muslim community welcomed the police response, stressing the need for firm action against hate speech. “Such statements create fear and hurt sentiments,” said Irfan Ali, a local resident. “The prompt police action gives confidence to ordinary people.”
Another resident, Shabnam Khan, said, “Freedom of speech does not include the right to abuse or threaten a community. Strict action like this helps maintain peace.”
Police officials said the situation remains under control and appealed to the public to maintain calm. “No one will be allowed to disturb communal harmony,” an officer said. “The law will take its course.”
