In Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh, a Muslim man named Sahil, also known as Badshah, was arrested after a video surfaced of him waving a Palestine flag during a Muharram procession. Another person named Mohammad Gorakh was also arrested and is currently being brought by the police.
The video captured both Indian and Palestinian flags being waved during the procession, leading to concerns that it could bring hatred among people. The police acted under Section 197 of the law, which deals with actions deemed prejudicial to national integration, to arrest Sahil. They are continuing to investigate the incident based on the video evidence.
Criticism has emerged over the police action, with some questioning why similar measures were not taken against those waving Israeli flags. Dr. Zafarul Islam Khan, a former chairman of the Delhi Minority Commission, criticized the arrest as “shameful” and raised concerns about human rights abuse by the Uttar Pradesh police.
The incident has sparked debate, particularly given India’s historical support for the Palestinian cause. The case remains under investigation at Aurai police station, with Sahil’s arrest prompting varied reactions across different quarters.
