UP: Saharanpur Hoardings on Harmony Trigger Backlash from Hindu Groups

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Ayesha alias Vijayalakshmi, a Bhim Army activist, puts up hoardings greeting people on Republic Day, Makar Sankranti, and Lohri

Team Clarion

SAHARANPUR – A controversy has erupted in Saharanpur’s Behat assembly constituency over hoardings put up by Ayesha alias Vijayalakshmi, a Bhim Army worker and active political figure. The banners, which extended Republic Day, Makar Sankranti, and Lohri greetings have become a flashpoint for polarising views in the district.

The hoardings feature messages of harmony alongside images of prominent leaders, including Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad, and Ayesha herself. However, Hindu organisations such as the Bajrang Dal allege that the posters are promoting “love jihad,” while Bhim Army supporters argue they symbolise communal unity.

Vijayalakshmi, a Hindu woman by birth, married Tipu Sultan 14 years ago and converted to Islam of her own accord, adopting the name Ayesha. Since her marriage, she has been actively involved in the Bhim Army and local politics, advocating for social justice and harmony.

The banners, meant to spread festive cheer, instead triggered opposition from the Bajrang Dal. Harish Kaushik, the provincial chief of the right-wing group, accused Ayesha of using the posters to promote love jihad. “This is a clear attempt to create unrest by promoting interfaith marriage and conversions under the guise of greetings,” he claimed.

Supporters of Ayesha have dismissed the accusations, emphasising that the hoardings aim to convey messages of peace. “The banners are an expression of harmony and celebration. Linking them to love jihad is baseless and inflammatory,” said a Bhim Army spokesperson.

Amid growing tension, Ayesha approached the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) office, seeking justice and protection. Speaking to the media, she stated, “The hoardings were intended to spread happiness and harmony among people of all communities. This baseless opposition by the Bajrang Dal is an attempt to create unrest.”

The incident has sparked sharp divisions in Saharanpur. On one side, Hindu organisations are demanding the removal of the banners, viewing them as a threat to social order. On the other, Bhim Army supporters are rallying behind Ayesha, insisting on her right to freedom of expression and condemning the attempts to vilify her.

Chandrashekhar Azad, leader of the Bhim Army, has come out in support of Ayesha, calling the controversy “manufactured” and urging authorities to act decisively. “This is a deliberate attempt to suppress voices that promote unity and question entrenched social hierarchies,” he said.

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