Daijiworld Media Network - Srinagar
Srinagar, Sep 24: Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has come out strongly against a recent FIR filed in Uttar Pradesh’s Kanpur over the use of the phrase “I Love Muhammad,” calling the action legally questionable and an indicator of extreme intolerance. Addressing reporters on Wednesday, Abdullah questioned how a simple expression of devotion could be construed as unlawful, urging the courts to intervene swiftly.
The controversy erupted after Kanpur police filed a case on September 9 against nine named individuals and 15 unidentified others for displaying “I Love Muhammad” banners during the Eid Milad-un-Nabi procession held on September 4. Some Hindu organisations objected, labeling it a “new trend” and accusing participants of deliberate provocation.
Omar Abdullah expressed disbelief over the FIR, suggesting it reflected either a deep misunderstanding of religious expressions or an alarming lack of mental balance among those responsible. “How can writing these three words be illegal? It must mean someone is truly mentally unwell to file a case over this,” he said, adding that freedom of religious expression should be uniformly respected across faiths.
Drawing parallels with common practices in other religions, Abdullah asked why such displays are considered normal when related to Hindu or Sikh traditions but suddenly controversial when associated with Islam. “Go anywhere outside J&K and you’ll see cars adorned with religious symbols and slogans. Why is ‘I Love Muhammad’ being singled out?” he asked.
The issue gained national traction after AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi defended the expression on social media, asserting that saying “I Love Muhammad” is not a crime and should not be treated as one.
Muslims around the world hold Prophet Muhammad in the highest reverence, and expressions of love and respect for him are central to Islamic faith and tradition. Abdullah emphasized that recognizing this sentiment should not be grounds for legal action, but rather a matter of mutual understanding and respect in a pluralistic society.