Tensions remain high in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, after communal violence broke out on Friday over the controversial “I Love Mohammad” posters. In the aftermath, 12 people, including cleric Tauqeer Raza, have been arrested and 37 detained. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath responded with stern warnings, stating, “Those who spread fear will be crushed. Those who create chaos during festivals will be given a ticket to hell.” His fiery remarks have drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties. The Samajwadi Party questioned when the government would act against “top-level criminals” from within its own community. Akhilesh Yadav mocked Yogi over his “film-like dialogues,” saying people will reject him in the 2027 elections. Meanwhile, poster wars are escalating. Initially, “I Love Mohammad” was countered with “I Love Mahadev.” Now, new posters like “I Love Yogi,” “I Love Bulldozer,” and “I Love Akhilesh” have appeared, deepening the political and communal divide. The Congress accused the BJP of deliberately inciting polarization, while Yogi warned that those inciting riots will face consequences. As Uttar Pradesh inches toward the 2027 elections, questions arise: Is this communal unrest politically motivated? Are religious slogans being weaponized to provoke violence?
