In the backdrop of the row over the issue, a public interest litigation (PIL) petition has been filed before the Delhi High Court challenging criminal cases registered against members of the Muslim community for displaying posters and banners reading 'I Love Muhammad'.
The posters were put up during the Mila-un-Nabi festival, commemorating both the birth and passing of the Prophet. The petition, filed by Shujaat Ali, a representative of Raza Academy and the National President of Muslims Students Organisation of India, accuses police in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand of registering false and communal FIRs that criminalise peaceful religious expression.
As per the petitioner, the people displaying those posters were merely celebrating their religious festivals and express their devotion to God.
"However, without any cogent or independent evidence, they have been framed in multiple criminal cases by members of the majority community, who have levelled allegations of rioting, criminal intimidation, and breach of peace against them," the plea stated.
Invoking Articles 14, 15, 19, 21 and 25 of the Constitution, the petition argues that the FIRs registered in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur and Bahraid and Uttarakhand's Udharmsingh Nagar violate fundamental rights to equality, free expression, liberty and freedom of religion.
As per the plea,“Criminalising peaceful religious expression not only harms the petitioners but also undermines the secular fabric of the nation.”The plea was filed through advocate Lakshay Sharma. Pertinently, in the wake of demonstrations by youth holding “I Love you Muhammad” placards that turned violent in a couple of places in UP, the Raza Academy of Mumbai and the Muslim Students Organisation (MSO) have urged the Muslim youth to remain calm and avoid any action that could disturb peace and harmony.
“Emotional reactions, protests without due permission, or confrontational behaviour may only worsen the situation and give rise to further misunderstandings. The strength of our community lies in patience, wisdom, and constructive engagement. In a statement, the MSO said, “We firmly believe that love and reverence for Prophet Muhammad is a deeply personal and spiritual matter, and such expressions should not be treated as crimes when carried out peacefully. The Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of religion and freedom of expression, and these principles must be safeguarded.
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