Congress leader Pawan Khera highlighted the country’s rich syncretic heritage, citing mystic saint Meerabai and Sufi traditions, and criticised those who see such expressions as a threat. “They even killed a seven-year-old because of his religion. What harm could that child cause to our cultural heritage?” Khera said in a video statement.

He added that India’s culture embraces love for all faiths. “If someone says ‘I love Muhammad,’ it should not be a problem. People love their Gods and prophets; we should respect that,” he said, while taking a swipe at the BJP. Khera concluded by asserting, “I love Muhammad, I love Mahadev, I love Jesus Christ, I love Nanak Dev, I love India.”

The controversy has sparked tensions in several districts of Uttar Pradesh, including Barabanki, Mau, and Muzaffarnagar. Violent protests erupted in Bareilly after Friday prayers, leading to house-to-house police raids and the arrest of a man named Raza. Security forces were deployed in large numbers, and social media activity was closely monitored.

In Barabanki’s Faizullaganj village, a banner reading ‘I Love Muhammad’ was torn down, reportedly by a local watchman named Dhanni. The act triggered community tensions, though peace was later restored. CCTV footage captured Dhanni toppling the banner, which police have seized for investigation. Following the incident, his house was vandalised, and eight people were arrested for taking out a procession in protest.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further clashes and maintain communal harmony in the affected areas.

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In the spiritual city of Varanasi, saints and Shiva devotees have launched the “I Love Mahadev” campaign, taking the movement beyond slogans and processions. Young followers of Lord Shiva are flocking to tattoo parlours to permanently express their faith by getting “I Love Mahadev” inked on their bodies. Tattoo artists report a sharp rise in demand, with many parlours even offering the tattoos free of cost to devotees.

Local artist Paras said he has already created more than 50 such tattoos in just a few days. Tattoo parlour owner Ashok Kumar confirmed that the campaign has significantly increased footfall, particularly among youth seeking a permanent spiritual symbol. One devotee, Jyoti, who got the tattoo on her arm, said she felt “energy, not pain,” adding that Lord Shiva’s presence gave her strength during the process.

Meanwhile, tensions continue in Bareilly, where cleric Maulana Tauqeer Raza has called for a sit-in protest over the removal of “I Love Muhammad” posters. Authorities have imposed Section 163 and conducted flag marches to maintain peace, warning that no unauthorized protests will be allowed.

This growing tattoo trend in Varanasi reflects how faith and personal devotion are being expressed in new and striking ways amid a sensitive statewide debate.

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