The ‘I Love Muhammad protests’ have spread across India following a controversial banner during the Barawafat procession in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, on September 4. The banner sparked objections from local Hindu groups, claiming it introduced a new tradition in a space meant for Barawafat celebrations.
Kanpur police intervened, restoring the traditional tent and signage. While no FIR targeted the banner itself, cases were registered against 24 people for allegedly disturbing communal harmony. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi called for protection of religious freedom, emphasizing that expressing love for Prophet Muhammad is not a crime.
The I Love Muhammad protests quickly expanded to other districts: Unnao saw youth processions and stone-pelting incidents; Maharajganj police prevented rallies, registering cases against 64 individuals; Kaushambi witnessed viral videos of objectionable slogans, leading to detentions. Peaceful demonstrations also occurred in Lucknow, while Nagpur and Kashipur (Uttarakhand) reported minor clashes.
Political reactions were mixed. Samajwadi Party leaders defended freedom of expression, whereas BJP emphasized action against law violations. Religious organizations urged calm and respect for constitutional rights.
What began as a local banner dispute has now become a broader conversation on freedom of religious expression, communal harmony, and constitutional rights in India. Authorities continue to monitor events and social media to prevent escalation of the I Love Muhammad protests.
