India’s Muslims Persecuted for Saying ‘I Love Muhammad’, Sparking Outrage
Tension is escalating across parts of India after multiple states, led by the BJP, launched a crackdown on Muslims for publicly displaying or chanting the phrase “I love Muhammad.” Dozens have been detained, properties have been demolished, and more than 2,500 people have been named in police cases, according to rights groups. The flashpoint began in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, on September 4, when residents put up an illuminated sign reading “I love Muhammad” during celebrations for the Prophet’s birthday. Hindu groups objected. Police intervened. The sign was removed that same night. Days later, authorities filed a case against several Muslim residents, accusing them of disturbing communal harmony. Protests erupted. The situation spread to Bareilly, where thousands gathered on September 26, chanting the same slogan and demanding the charges be dropped. Police said the march was illegal and claimed stones were thrown. Officers responded with force, made dozens of arrests and briefly shut down the internet in the city. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused organisers of attempting to provoke unrest. Soon after, authorities demolished properties linked to some of the accused, calling them illegal structures. Rights groups say this has become a pattern used to intimidate Muslim communities. Legal activists, including the APCR, say at least 22 police cases have been registered nationwide over the slogan. They argue that citizens are being criminalised for a peaceful expression of faith. Families of those charged say many of the accused are daily wage earners who cannot afford legal battles. Opposition figures have condemned the government’s response and attempted to visit affected neighborhoods, claiming they were blocked by authorities. Protesters insist they are exercising constitutional rights and vow to continue speaking out. The central government has not commented directly on the cases. Meanwhile, arrests, investigations and public anger continue to rise, as a three-word expression of devotion has triggered one of the most emotionally charged crackdowns in recent years.
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