FIR filed amid complaints by a VHP leader; Muslim residents question the selective action and the assault on freedom of expression
NEW DELHI — A controversy has broken out in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, after slogans of “Allah-o-Akbar” were raised during an Ambedkar Jayanti procession, leading to arrests and a wider debate on religious expression and public order.
The incident occurred during a procession held to mark the birth anniversary of Babasaheb Ambedkar. Along with the usual “Jai Bhim” slogans, some participants were heard raising “Allah-o-Akbar” slogans, a development that has triggered reactions from different sections of society.
Police said they have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Saddam Qureshi along with six unidentified persons. Qureshi was initially detained and later released on bail, but was arrested again. A local Muslim councillor was also taken into custody and later re-arrested.
According to police officials, the arrests were made on charges related to disturbing public peace. “We are examining the video evidence and statements. Action is being taken as per law,” an officer said, requesting not to be named.
The matter came to light after a video from the procession went viral on social media. In the footage, a group can be seen raising religious slogans, including “Allah-o-Akbar”, alongside young participants in the rally.
A complaint was filed by Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Acharya Rituparna, who alleged that the slogans were intended to create division. “This was an attempt to disturb harmony and divide Hindu society,” he said in his complaint.
He further claimed that minors were encouraged to raise the slogans. “Young boys were influenced and made to chant these slogans. This is serious and needs strict action,” he said.
However, reactions among local Muslim residents have not been uniform. While some defended the right to religious expression, others questioned the timing and setting of the slogans.
One resident said, “The Constitution gives everyone the right to express their faith. If slogans like ‘Jai Shri Ram’ and ‘Jai Bhim’ are allowed, then why should ‘Allah-o-Akbar’ be treated differently?”
At the same time, several others expressed concern over the appropriateness of such slogans during an Ambedkar Jayanti procession. “Babasaheb belongs to everyone. His procession should not have religious slogans. It is not the right place for this,” another resident said.
Another elder from the area added, “Peace in the locality is more important. If any slogan, from any side, creates tension, then it should be avoided.”
Some residents also raised questions about the police response. “If a slogan is not a crime in one case, it should not become a crime in another. There should be equal treatment,” a shopkeeper said.
The issue has also drawn political attention, with some opposition figures reportedly speaking in support of the accused and questioning the arrests. Police sources said pressure was mounted from different sides, but maintained that the investigation is being carried out independently.
Officials confirmed that the video is being analysed to identify all those involved. “We are verifying who raised the slogans and under what circumstances,” a senior officer said.
The incident has led to a broader discussion on the use of religious slogans in public events, especially those that are meant to be inclusive and social in nature. Legal experts say that while freedom of expression is protected, it may be subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order.
For now, the situation in Sambhal remains calm, but the debate continues. Residents say the focus should remain on maintaining peace. “People here want harmony. We do not want small issues to turn into bigger problems,” said a local teacher.
As the investigation continues, all eyes are on the authorities to ensure that the law is applied fairly and that communal harmony is maintained.
