Alitoday

Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh – A shocking video showing individuals stepping on a poster with the sacred Islamic Kalima and the Saudi flag has caused widespread anger in the Muslim community. The poster, deliberately placed on a busy road in Prayagraj, was filmed and shared online, leading to accusations of a planned act to provoke religious tensions. The video shows men walking over the poster, which carried the Islamic declaration of faith — “La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah” — and the Saudi flag. This act, seen as an insult to Islam, has drawn strong criticism from Muslim leaders and residents. Many believe it was meant to disturb peace, especially after recent tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor in Kashmir. “This is not just an insult to Islam but a deliberate provocation meant to hurt the feelings of Muslims,” said Maulana Rashid Qasmi, a senior cleric in Prayagraj. He demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible, warning that inaction could lead to serious consequences. Local residents expressed their shock and sadness. “I have never seen such hatred. We have always lived in harmony here. But now it feels like someone is trying to set fire to our neighbourhood with such cheap tricks,” said Mohammad Irfan, a shopkeeper near the incident site. Muslim organizations suspect this is part of a larger plot to target the community. “Why would anyone print a flag with such a holy Kalima and throw it on the street unless they wanted to provoke Muslims? This is not ignorance — this is a well-planned move,” said Sabir Hussain, a member of the local Peace Committee. Shabana Parveen, a local activist, added, “Whenever elections are near or when there’s pressure on the government due to other issues, some people try to create religious tension. We’ve seen this pattern before.” After the video spread online, police removed the poster, but the delay in action has fueled public anger. On Friday, large crowds gathered outside the district collector’s office, demanding strict legal action and the arrest of those responsible. Muslim groups also submitted a memorandum to senior police officials. “If the government can take action within hours when the sentiments of any other group are hurt, then why are we being made to wait? Are our feelings not equal? We demand justice,” said Advocate Faheem Akhtar, a community leader. Also Read | ‘No Thanks!’ App Call for Boycott Israeli Product The Prayagraj Police have registered a case against unknown persons for promoting enmity and hurting religious sentiments. “We are examining the video footage and trying to identify the persons involved,” said SP (City) Dinesh Kumar. “We appeal to people to remain calm and not fall for rumours.” However, community leaders are calling for more than promises. They demand a thorough investigation to uncover any larger conspiracy. “There is no doubt that this was done to disturb the peace in Prayagraj. The delay in arresting the culprits is encouraging others to think they can get away with such acts,” said Dr. Mohammad Tahir, a former Legislative Council member. The lack of public statements from senior ruling party leaders has added to the frustration. Prayagraj, known for its shared culture, has seen a rise in communal incidents recently, making this act particularly alarming. Residents are urging calm and unity. “We must not let a few people destroy our centuries-old unity,” said Mohammad Rizwan, a retired teacher. Community elders are planning peace meetings to counter the spread of hatred online. The incident has raised concerns about the deliberate targeting of religious sentiments to create division. “We are Indians, and we respect every religion. But when our religion is insulted and no one speaks up for us, it breaks our trust. Justice must not only be done, it must be seen to be done,” said Zubair Ahmed, a university student. As Prayagraj waits for justice, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for swift action and stronger efforts to maintain peace in a city with a rich history of harmony.