Police call it a ‘new tradition,’ remove the loudspeaker and send all accused to jail
Team Clarion
RAMPUR – A controversy has erupted in the Uttar Pradesh city of Rampur after an announcement of Iftar (breaking of fast) was made through a loudspeaker in a mosque. The incident led to protests from some members of a Hindutva outfit, prompting police intervention and the arrest of nine individuals, including the imam of the mosque. The police have termed the act as a “new tradition” and removed the loudspeaker from the mosque.
The incident occurred in Manakpur Bajaria village, located in the Syed Nagar Chowki area under Tanda police station. The mosque, which has been in existence for around 15 to 20 years, serves approximately 20 Muslim families in the village. On Sunday, the imam made an announcement for Iftar using a loudspeaker, triggering objections from members of the Hindu community who lodged a complaint with the police.
Upon receiving the complaint, personnel from the 112 police emergency service arrived at the scene and attempted to mediate between the two parties. However, tensions remained high as the protesting group opposed what they described as an unprecedented practice.
Following the altercation, the police arrested nine individuals, including the imam, and registered a case against them. Additionally, authorities removed the loudspeaker from the mosque, citing concerns over public order.
Speaking on the matter, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Atul Kumar Shrivastava stated, “A dispute arose between two groups following an announcement made through a mosque loudspeaker in Manakpur Bajaria village. Immediate action was taken, and nine people were arrested to maintain law and order.”
The arrests have sparked concerns among local Muslim residents, who argue that announcements for religious gatherings, including Iftar, have been made in many places without issue. A community member, speaking on condition of anonymity, questioned the police action, saying, “If Azaan and other religious calls can be made through loudspeakers, why is an Iftar announcement being termed a new tradition?”
Maulana Rashid Ahmed, a local cleric, expressed his dismay over the arrests, stating, “This is a clear case of targeting one community. Announcements from places of worship have always been a part of religious practice, so why single out this one?”
Advocate Shariq Anwar, a legal expert and social activist, condemned the police action. “The arrests and removal of the loudspeaker set a dangerous precedent. This selective enforcement raises concerns about religious freedom and equal treatment under the law,” he said.
Meanwhile, local authorities have urged residents to maintain peace and avoid actions that could escalate tensions. The incident has drawn reactions from social and religious organisations, with some calling for the immediate release of the arrested individuals.
