Bahraich: A cleric accused of making objectionable remarks against the mother of Yogi Adityanath has been arrested and sent to judicial custody in Bahraich, police said on Tuesday.
The accused, Abdullah Salim Qasmi, also known as Chaturvedi, was apprehended by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force from Purnea in Bihar on Monday evening.
Arrest follows viral video controversy
According to police, a video of a speech delivered by the cleric at an event in May 2024 resurfaced on social media earlier this month. The video allegedly contained objectionable remarks against the Chief Minister’s mother, triggering protests in several parts of the state.
Circle Officer Narayan Dutt Mishra said the accused was brought to Bahraich late Monday night and produced before a court on Tuesday, which remanded him to judicial custody.
FIR filed under multiple sections
An FIR was registered on March 8 at Kotwali Nagar police station in Bahraich based on a complaint by a representative of the Vishva Hindu Parishad.
Police said the case was filed under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including:
- Section 196: Promoting enmity between groups
- Section 299: Deliberate acts intended to outrage religious feelings
- Section 353: Statements conducing to public mischief
Authorities stated that these provisions were invoked considering the nature of the remarks and their potential to disturb public harmony.
Accused admits offence, seeks apology
During questioning, police said the accused admitted to making the remarks and sought forgiveness.
A purported video has also surfaced in which the cleric is seen apologising for his comments made during a speech on May 5, 2024, at an event in Bhagalpur. In the clip, he is heard expressing regret and stating that such remarks should not have been made.
He also sought forgiveness from the Chief Minister and assured that the mistake would not be repeated.
Protests and political reactions
Following the resurfacing of the video, protests were held in multiple locations across Uttar Pradesh, including Lucknow.
Political reactions also followed, with leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party condemning the remarks. Among them, Ravi Kishan termed the comments “unacceptable”.
Police also confirmed that related FIRs were registered in other districts, including Balrampur, and complaints were submitted in several areas.
Investigation continues
Authorities stated that further investigation is underway to examine all aspects of the case, including the context of the speech and its circulation on social media.
Officials have urged the public to refrain from sharing sensitive or provocative content that could disturb communal harmony.
Conclusion
The arrest underscores the authorities’ stance on taking strict action against speech that may incite tension or disrupt public order. As the investigation progresses, officials are focusing on maintaining peace and preventing further escalation.