Kanpur ‘I Love Muhammad’ row: Samajwadi Party member arrested

**Kanpur ‘I Love Muhammad’ Row: Samajwadi Party Member Arrested**
*By Snehil Singh | September 29, 2025, 10:45 AM*

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**Overview**

A former police constable, Zubair Ahmed Khan—also known as Zubair Gazi—has been arrested by police for allegedly inciting violence in Kanpur’s Railbazar area. Khan, who was dismissed from the Unnao Police force, recently joined the Samajwadi Party (SP). His association with SP’s Kanpur district president Fazal Mehmood gained widespread attention after their photos went viral on social media, sparking political controversy.

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**Background: The Kanpur Communal Violence Case**

The controversy began on September 4 during the Barawafat procession in Rawatpur, where a banner reading “I Love Muhammad” was displayed. Hindu groups objected to the slogan, alleging that it introduced a new tradition to religious processions.

Although no FIR was filed directly against the slogan, 24 individuals were charged with disturbing communal harmony for relocating a traditional tent and installing the banner elsewhere. This incident triggered tensions within the community.

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**Political Escalation**

The situation intensified after All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi publicly stated on September 15 that expressing love for the Prophet Muhammad is not a crime. He further asserted, “If it is, then I accept any punishment. But Muslims should not be penalized for expressing love and respect for the Prophet,” in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Since then, the controversy has spread to several districts and states, including Unnao, Kaushambi, Lucknow, Maharajganj (Uttar Pradesh), Kashipur (Uttarakhand), and Nagpur (Maharashtra).

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**Protests and Reactions**

In neighboring regions, the issue has sparked diverse reactions:

– **Unnao:** Processions featuring “I Love Muhammad” banners resulted in clashes with police.
– **Kaushambi:** A viral video showing youths raising objectionable slogans led to arrests.
– **Lucknow:** Muslim women held peaceful demonstrations outside Vidhan Bhavan.
– **Maharajganj and Kashipur (Uttarakhand):** Police intervened to stop unauthorized processions, registering cases against numerous individuals.
– **Nagpur (Maharashtra):** Political and social groups organized protests demanding respect for religious freedom.

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**Political and Social Responses**

The Samajwadi Party has criticized the police for their handling of the situation, emphasizing the importance of protecting free expression rights. On the other hand, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) spokespersons have promised strict action against those violating the law.

Prominent Islamic clerics, including Maulana Sufiyan Nizami, members of Jamat Raza-e-Mustafa, and officials from the World Sufi Forum, have condemned the violence. They have appealed for calm and called for respect for constitutional freedoms.

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The Kanpur ‘I Love Muhammad’ controversy highlights deep-rooted communal sensitivities and the challenge of maintaining peace amid political and social tensions. Authorities and community leaders continue to seek ways to defuse the situation and promote harmony.
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