What Happened: From Kanpur to Bareilly
In September 2025, a series of protests erupted across Uttar Pradesh after an "I Love Muhammad" poster was removed by police during an Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi procession in Kanpur, reportedly following objections from some local non-Muslim groups. The removal, and subsequent cases filed against organizers, angered the Muslim community and sparked widespread demonstrations in Bareilly and nearby regions. Protesters carrying "I Love Muhammad" placards clashed with police, resulting in violence, injuries, detentions, and the imposition of prohibitory orders.
Why Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) Matters to Muslims
For every Muslim, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the last prophet, the messenger of God, and an unmatched example of moral conduct and compassion. Loving him is not just emotion but an essential pillar of faith. According to Islamic tradition, belief in the finality and centrality of Muhammad’s prophethood is fundamental, as the Qur’an states: “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah” (Qur’an 48:29), and "If ye love Allah, follow me; Allah will love you" (Qur’an 3:31). A Muslim’s faith is incomplete without loving and respecting Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and expressions of that love, such as the phrase "I Love Muhammad," are deeply spiritual not political or provocative to Muslims.
Love for Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is central to Islamic faith because it is not only a matter of deep affection and admiration but also a spiritual obligation that completes one's belief. Muslims are taught that loving the Prophet more than their parents, children, and even themselves is a measure of true faith, as expressed in his saying, “None of you has faith until I am more beloved to him than his father, his child, and all of mankind” (Bukhari). This love inspires believers to follow his example in character, compassion, and obedience to God, making religion a living, soulful practice rather than a set of empty rituals. Without love for the Prophet, faith lacks its heart and meaning for a Muslim.
Non-Muslims generally hold a diverse range of views about Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), with many recognizing his historical and moral significance even if they do not accept his prophethood. Prominent non-Muslim scholars and thinkers have often admired his character, leadership, and impact on society. For instance, historian Michael H. Hart ranked Muhammad among the most influential figures in history for his religious and secular achievements, while others have acknowledged his exemplary qualities of honesty, compassion, and courage. Interfaith perspectives underscore his commitment to peace, justice, and respect for religious diversity, as evidenced by his diplomatic approaches and the Charter of Medina, which fostered coexistence among Muslims, Jews, and others. Though some criticisms exist, particularly from some historical or ideological standpoints, the broader view appreciates Muhammad’s role as a unifier and reformer who set enduring ethical standards for humanity.
The Role of Provocation
The unrest did not arise from a celebration of faith, but from actions taken to suppress or mock these sincere sentiments. The initial objection to religious posters and subsequent administrative action—seen as discriminatory—sparked outrage. While maintaining public order is important, attempts to criminalize visible expressions of love for a revered figure fueled perceptions of injustice and fanned social tension. Counter-campaigns and inflammatory reactions from other groups amplified the problem.
It must be recognized that the real culprit behind the violence was not the love for Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), but unnecessary provocation—whether through banning a peaceful slogan, harsh crackdowns, or mobilizing counter-campaigns.
Arrests, NSA, and Overreaction
Police responded with lathi charges, detentions (over 50 people apprehended), FIRs against hundreds, and heavy deployment across Bareilly and nearby areas. The imposition of the National Security Act (NSA) is seen by many as an extreme overreaction. The NSA, meant for grave threats to national security, risks criminalizing the fundamental right to peaceful religious expression and assembly. Such measures escalate fear and resentment, undermining the prospect of dialogue and reconciliation. Dissent and public display of religious love must not be equated with terrorism or sedition.
The National Security Act (NSA) is designed as a last-resort measure for severe threats to national security or public order, with built-in legal limits on detention, judicial review safeguards, and strict grounds for invocation. Its use must be balanced with fundamental rights and is subject to review by advisory boards and, ultimately, the courts.
Concluding Remarks and the Way Forward
Incidents like the "I Love Muhammad" controversy expose vulnerabilities in social cohesion and governance in a plural society. Lasting peace can only be achieved through:
Enforcing laws fairly, without selectively targeting peaceful religious expression.
Penalizing those instigating or escalating conflict, regardless of their religious identity.
Encouraging dialogue between communities to foster mutual understanding.
Training police and officials for sensitive, unbiased handling of religious matters.
Rejecting provocative counter-campaigns which only heighten tensions.
Empathy, justice, and collective restraint—rooted in the principles that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself embodied—are the real answers to such divisive incidents. Responsibility lies across society: to respect one another’s deepest sentiments, and to resolve disagreements through conversation, not confrontation
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