New Delhi, Sep.26,2025:The I Love Mohammad Poster Controversy has triggered a heated political and social debate in India. It began in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, during the celebration of Barawafat (Eid Milad-un-Nabi), when a poster reading “I Love Mohammad” was displayed. Soon after, authorities ordered its removal, sparking outrage and polarizing opinions across the nation-
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi stepped into the debate, questioning the government’s stance and highlighting what he sees as selective restrictions on religious and cultural expressions. His fiery response has not only brought the issue into the national spotlight but also raised questions about freedom of expression, secularism, and political motivations in India.
Background of the Poster Row in Kanpur
The controversy started when local Muslims in Kanpur displayed banners reading “I Love Mohammad” during Barawafat celebrations. Police officials intervened, citing government orders against putting up new posters in public spaces without prior approval.
While birthday greetings for Prime Ministers and Chief Ministers were reportedly allowed, religious banners became the subject of objection, creating a double-standard narrative that fuelled anger among communities.
Owaisi’s Strong Reaction to the Controversy
AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi launched a sharp attack against the BJP-led government and right-wing groups. Speaking to journalists, he said:
“When the word love is being used, why does it bother you? Does that mean you are against love? You don’t believe in mohabbat (love)?”
Owaisi accused the BJP and RSS of sending a negative message about India’s pluralism to the world. He reminded them that India is home to 18–19 crore Muslims, the largest Muslim population in Asia outside Indonesia, and questioned the intention behind targeting the phrase “I Love Mohammad.”
Why the Phrase “I Love Mohammad” Became Contentious
The controversy isn’t merely about one poster. It has exposed deeper societal fault lines:
- The use of the word “Love” in a religious context raised objections among right-wing groups.
- Authorities feared potential law and order issues if such posters spread widely.
- Supporters argue it was a peaceful expression of devotion, not a provocation.
Thus, the I Love Mohammad Poster Controversy has quickly become symbolic of the wider struggle between expression, religion, and political narratives in India.
Government and Police Response
The Uttar Pradesh police defended their decision, saying government orders had barred new banners in public places, especially those with religious slogans.
ADGP (Law and Order) was quoted saying:
“Our government policy is clear — no new religious posters will be permitted. However, posters for Prime Minister and Chief Minister birthday greetings can be allowed with due permission.”
This statement further fuelled the debate, with many asking whether political leaders are being given preferential treatment over religious figures.
RSS-BJP’s Stand on the Issue
According to BJP leaders, the restriction was not against any particular religion, but aimed at maintaining neutrality and preventing communal tension.
However, critics argue that the selective allowance for political posters while banning religious ones undermines the principle of equality before law.
Political Reactions Across the Spectrum
The I Love Mohammad Poster Controversy has drawn reactions from across the political spectrum:
- Samajwadi Party leaders accused the BJP of “double standards” and “targeting minorities.”
- Congress called the decision “an attack on secular values.”
- BJP leaders maintained the rule was applied fairly and accused the opposition of “communalizing the issue.”
Can the State Restrict Posters
Legal experts point out that while the state has powers to regulate public displays to maintain order, such restrictions must not discriminate between political and religious speech.
Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, but subject to reasonable restrictions. The current controversy raises the question: Are these restrictions being applied equally?
Public Opinion and Social Media Storm
On social media platforms like Twitter (X) and Facebook, hashtags such as #ILoveMohammad and #PosterRow began trending.
- Supporters argued that the poster was a harmless display of love and devotion.
- Critics saw it as provocation aimed at stirring communal emotions.
The storm highlighted how religion-based controversies can spread rapidly online, influencing public opinion within hours.
Owaisi’s Call for Lawmaking
In one of his most controversial statements, Owaisi said sarcastically:
“Why not make a law that no one in India can talk about love anymore?”
This biting remark was aimed at exposing what he views as the absurdity of selective restrictions. For Owaisi, the controversy is less about the poster and more about the shrinking democratic space for minorities in India.
Religion, Politics, and Posters in India
India has a long history of posters and banners as tools of political and religious mobilization. From independence rallies to election campaigns, public displays have been a common form of expression.
However, religious slogans and symbols have often been flashpoints for communal clashes. The I Love Mohammad Poster Controversy fits into this larger historical trend of religious expression colliding with political restrictions.
Experts’ Views on the Controversy
- Dr. Aftab Alam (Political Scientist): “This controversy shows how fragile communal harmony remains in India.”
- Advocate Rina Kapoor (Constitutional Lawyer): “The selective permission for political posters while banning religious ones may not stand the test of law.”
- Sociologist Arvind Mishra: “Posters are symbolic; they amplify underlying tensions. The real issue is mistrust between communities.”
International Perspective on Religious Expression
Globally, countries handle religious expression differently-
- France bans religious symbols in public institutions.
- UK allows freedom but monitors speech for hate content.
- Indonesia actively supports religious banners during Islamic festivals.
India’s handling of the I Love Mohammad Poster Controversy will be scrutinized internationally as a test of its secular democracy.
Explore global policies on religious expression
Impact on Upcoming Elections
With elections looming in several states, political observers say the controversy could polarize voters. For the BJP, it may consolidate majority votes, while for AIMIM and other opposition parties, it could serve as a rallying point for minorities.
The I Love Mohammad Poster Controversy has, therefore, become more than just a local issue — it is now part of India’s election battleground.
The I Love Mohammad Poster Controversy highlights the challenges India faces in balancing freedom of expression, secularism, and communal harmony.
