Freedom, Faith & Politics: The Truth Behind the “𝐈 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐌𝐨𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐝” Controversy

People in India now can publicly declare, "I love Modi," yet others argue that saying, "I love Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)," is frowned upon. This has prompted concerns about the direction that such polarising narratives are taking the nation.

Banners and slogans related to the "I love" campaign have caused controversy in a number of locations, with opponents claiming that Muslims are no longer allowed to show their love for their Prophet. But this topic became politicised very rapidly. Claiming to speak for the Muslim community, several officials exploited it to exacerbate political divisions and arouse religious feelings.

People in India now can publicly declare, "I love Modi," yet others argue that saying, "I love Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)," is frowned upon. This has prompted concerns about the direction that such polarising narratives are taking the nation.

 
Banners and slogans related to the "I love" campaign have caused controversy in a number of locations, with opponents claiming that Muslims are no longer allowed to show their love for their Prophet. But this topic became politicised very rapidly. Claiming to speak for the Muslim community, several officials exploited it to exacerbate political divisions and arouse religious feelings.

Authorities took swift action when violence erupted in Bareilly. The authorities made it plain that while it is not illegal to declare, "I love Muhammad," it would never be accepted if that attitude is used to provoke riots and disruption. More than 80 participants in the disturbances were taken into custody, and unlawful properties connected to the incident were subjected to bulldozer action.

 
However, it is impossible to overlook the larger background. While certain organisations back home try to portray every occurrence as evidence of religious persecution, political figures outside criticise India's democracy. However, the data shows that, in comparison to a decade earlier, the present government has seen a roughly 40% decrease in incidences of communal violence.

For many years, the "Muslim vote bank" has been at the centre of Indian politics. However, Prime Minister Modi's strategy, which was founded on "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (development for all), upended that outdated formula by substituting empowerment for appeasement. Every household has received government social programs without distinction based on religion, whether it be Muslim, Hindu, or another.

 
In actuality, the "I love Muhammad" debate was more about regaining lost political territory than it was about religion. It was a deliberate attempt to incite anger and create a fictitious image of bigotry. The true threat is not faith itself, but rather people who abuse it for their own or their political advantage.