Viral video sparked anger among locals, leading to an assault on the cleric Investigations continue to determine whether the elderly cleric was deliberately framed or targeted unjustly
AZAMGARH – An elderly Muslim cleric in the Uttar Pradesh city of Azamgarh was abused and assaulted after allegations of religious conversion and promoting circumcision were levelled against him. Authorities and local residents now suggest that the cleric may have been deliberately framed.
The controversy erupted after a viral video on Monday showed Maulana Saeed discussing the benefits of circumcision. In the video, a young man asks the cleric about medical and health advantages, and he explains in detail, highlighting hygiene and disease prevention.
However, the same video was misrepresented by some viewers to allege that the maulana was promoting conversion to Islam. Locals and the cleric’s supporters argue that the young man intentionally provoked the conversation to create communal tensions.
Witnesses described the chaotic scene, stating that two persons in the crowd grabbed the maulana by the arms and were trying to humiliate him in public. “It was clear that without police intervention, this could have turned into a tragedy,” they said.
Many community members defended the maulana, saying he was only replying to questions about health benefits of circumcision and nothing more. “This was blown out of proportion to falsely accuse him of religious conversion. Targeting him through mob violence is completely unacceptable.”
The police arrived promptly to prevent escalation. Azamgarh police spokesperson said, “We have registered a case and are questioning the individuals involved. No one is above the law, and we will ensure a fair investigation. The maulana was under threat, and timely action prevented a major incident.”
Residents also expressed concern about the misuse of social media. “Viral videos can be easily edited or misrepresented. People must verify before taking extreme action. This could have ended very badly for the maulana.”
Authorities are now investigating whether the incident was a planned attempt to frame the cleric and provoke communal unrest. The police are also questioning the young man seen in the video, and further action will be taken according to the evidence.
This incident has sparked debates across the community about the dangers of misinformation and the importance of law enforcement in protecting individuals from vigilante violence.
