'I Love Muhammad' slogan appear on temple walls in UP's Aligarh, police remove graffiti

Tension has gripped parts of Aligarh in Uttar Pradesh after slogans reading 'I Love Muhammad' written using chalk or spray paint appeared on the walls of several temples in two nearby villages. Police rushed to the spot, removed the graffiti, and stepped up security to prevent any flare-up.

The incident reportedly took place late Friday night or in the early hours of Saturday. Locals in Bulakgarhi and Bhagwanpur villages woke up to find the slogans sprayed or scribbled on four temple walls,  according to Aligarh Senior Superintendent of Police Neeraj Kumar Jadaun. It is reported angered residents informed authorities, leading to immediate police intervention.

Aligarh SSP Jadaun said 'I Love Muhammad' slogans were found on the walls of four temples in two villages.  He described the act as a deliberate attempt to provoke and disturb communal harmony, urging villagers to remain calm.

Following the incident, Aligarh SSP Jadaun inspected the affected sites and met residents to appeal for peace. “A thorough investigation is being conducted into all aspects. A case is being registered in this matter, and orders have been given to take strict punitive action against the accused involved in the incident. Peace prevails at the scene,” the Aligarh Police said in a statement posted on X.

The police further said that the offensive writings had been erased to maintain order.They also said that an earlier dispute in one of the villages may be connected to the event, though inquiries are ongoing.