Violence erupts following online ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign; properties ransacked, women and children harassed as police remain largely passive during the attacks
BAHIYAL – Violence erupted in Bahiyal village in Gujarat’s Gandhinagar District after Hindu right-wing groups launched a hate campaign targeting the Muslim-led online initiative “I Love Muhammad.” According to locals, the police acted unilaterally, allegedly siding with the mob and arresting only Muslims.
The unrest began when Heshbhai Patel Banker, a local resident, reportedly insulted Muslims involved in the campaign, calling them “ignorant” and calling for a counter “I Love Mahadev” campaign. Tensions escalated when Muslim residents were beaten while passing through a Hindu-dominated area, triggering widespread violence across the locality.
Media reports quoted eyewitnesses as saying that the police force remained largely passive during the attacks. “The police were mute spectators while our homes were targeted, but they filed cases only against Muslims,” said one resident, describing a scene of bias and inaction.
Residents also allege that Heshbhai Patel Banker has repeatedly engaged in provocative acts against Muslims. Shahrukh, a local resident, told Maktoob Media, “The post was inflammatory and targeted Muslims. We just went to file a complaint, but the police filed a case against Muslims.”
Human rights activists and local campaigners have condemned the violence, urging a fair and impartial investigation. “The unrest began when a right-wing individual used derogatory language against Muslims in a social media post,” said Bahiyal-based lawyer Mohammad Qazi.
Social media videos circulated online show a man associated with a Hindu right-wing organisation openly inciting revenge attacks, further raising concerns over the role of extremist groups in escalating communal tensions.
As tensions remain high, Bahiyal’s Muslim community continues to demand justice and protection from further attacks, highlighting fears of continued harassment and property damage. Local activists are calling on authorities to ensure accountability and prevent further communal violence.
“This is not just an attack on homes or property; it is an attack on our dignity and safety,” said Shahrukh. “We expect the authorities to act fairly and not punish victims instead of perpetrators.”
