AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi fired a sharp critique over what he called double standards in India regarding expressions of love for public figures versus religious icons.
He said, “One can say I love Modi, but can’t say I love Mohammad,” questioning the direction the country is heading.
Owaisi emphasized his identity as a Muslim and reaffirmed his devotion to Prophet Mohammad, while clarifying that he has no objection to posters praising PM Narendra Modi.
BJP’s reply
The BJP condemned the violence linked to the controversy. MP Dinesh Sharma called for communities to maintain peace and mutual respect.
BJP spokesperson Rohan Gupta accused opposition leaders of engaging in appeasement politics that divide communities for electoral gains, indirectly responding to Owaisi’s comments.
Backdrop to ‘I love Mohammad’ row
The controversy erupted on September 4 in Kanpur, when posters reading “I Love Mohammad” were displayed during an Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi procession, leading to an FIR against 24 people.
Tensions escalated on September 26 in Bareilly after a proposed protest was canceled, sparking clashes between locals and police, leaving several injured.
Authorities suspended internet services for 48 hours in an attempt to maintain communal harmony.
