The act draws the wrath of right-wing groups; Muslims say critics forget the earlier controversy involving Anuj Chaudhary in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal
NEW DELHI — In Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh, a video from the Eid-e-Miladun Nabi procession has gone viral for all the right reasons. Two police officers — SDOP Lavkushnagar Naveen Dubey and Traffic Police Station Incharge Brihaspati Saket — were seen riding horses and proudly carrying Islamic flags alongside members of the Muslim community.
For many, the image was nothing less than a living example of Ganga-Jamuni Tehzeeb—the centuries-old tradition of Hindu-Muslim brotherhood in India. Locals, overwhelmed by the sight, cheered the officers and showered them with prayers and slogans of unity.
“When we saw our officers with us, it felt like a festival of humanity, not just religion,” said Mohammed Rafi, a shopkeeper who was part of the procession.
The video spread rapidly across social media, drawing wide praise. People described the moment as a heart-warming reminder that harmony still thrives even in times of polarisation.
“I am not a religious person, but seeing Naveen Dubey and Brihaspati Saket carry the flag gave me hope,” commented a user on Facebook. “It shows that humanity is still alive.”
Residents of Chhatarpur also highlighted that the police are not only guardians of law and order but can also act as bridges between communities. “This was not just about Muslims. It was about showing that our city stands together,” said Imran Ali, a college lecturer.
However, the gesture did not sit well with right-wing groups, who demanded strict action against the officers. They argued that government servants should not carry symbols of any religion during public processions.
One social media user wrote: “Administrative officers should stay neutral. Raising the Islamic flag is against their duty.”
The controversy has reignited debate over double standards. Many people recalled the case of Anuj Chaudhary, a police officer in Uttar Pradesh, who was photographed carrying Hanuman’s mace during a Rath Yatra in a temple in the volatile city of Sambhal. Although a complaint was filed, he was later acquitted by the department.
“If Anuj Chaudhary was praised and spared, why should these officers be punished?” questioned Mohammad Aslam, a resident of Chhatarpur. ‘”Fairness means the same yardstick for all.”
At a time when Muslims in Madhya Pradesh face increasing hostility, the act of two police officers joining Muslims in their religious celebration has become a beacon of unity. Community leaders said the moment should be seen as a message of brotherhood, not division.
“What these officers did is not political. It is human,” said Abdul Qayyum, a local elder. “They have shown us that love is stronger than hate.”
The debate continues, but for many in Chhatarpur, the image of police officers holding the Islamic flag during Eid-e-Miladun Nnabi will remain etched as a symbol of solidarity.
