Uttarakhand: Violence Erupts During Unauthorized ‘I Love Muhammad’ Procession in Kashipur, the Police in action



Updated: 23 September, 2025 8:20 am IST

Hindu Voice Team: On the night of September 21, 2025, a violent incident occurred in the Alikhan area of Kashipur, Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand. An unauthorized religious procession, reportedly organized by Samajwadi Party leader Nadeem Akhtar, involved approximately 400–500 participants. The group, carrying banners and chanting slogans such as “I Love Muhammad,” proceeded towards the Valmiki settlement without prior permission from the authorities .

As the procession advanced, local police, including Sub-Inspector Anil Joshi, attempted to intervene and disperse the crowd. Despite warnings, the group continued their march, leading to heightened tensions. The situation escalated when some members of the procession began pelting stones and attacking police personnel with sticks. Several officers, including Sub-Inspector Joshi, were assaulted, and government vehicles were damaged .

In response to the violence, an FIR was registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including 190, 191(2), 191(3), 232, 121(1), 132, 221, 324(3), 351(2), and 352. The complaint, lodged by Sub-Inspector Joshi, identified Nadeem Akhtar as the primary instigator. Additional police forces were deployed to maintain law and order in the area .

As of September 23, seven individuals have been arrested, including the alleged mastermind Nadeem Akhtar. Among those arrested are Mohd Ashad (18), Kamran (19), Moin Raza (26), and Danish (28). Ten others are currently in police custody for questioning. Authorities are utilizing CCTV footage to identify additional participants involved in the unrest .

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Manikant Mishra emphasized that strict action would be taken against those disturbing public peace and attacking law enforcement personnel. He urged citizens to remain calm, avoid spreading rumors, and cooperate with authorities. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has been informed of the developments, and additional forces have been deployed to maintain law and order in the area .

The incident in Kashipur is part of a larger pattern of unrest triggered by the appearance of ‘I Love Muhammad’ posters, which first surfaced in Kanpur on September 4, 2025. The posters have led to protests and clashes in various states, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and now Uttarakhand. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are taking steps to prevent further disturbances.

(The above story has been written based on an article published by OpIndia. You can read the original article HERE.)