**Clash in Karnataka Over ‘I Love Muhammad’ Banner Following UP Controversy**
*By Chanshimla Varah | Sep 25, 2025, 11:23 AM*
A communal clash erupted on Wednesday night in Karl Marx Nagar, Davanagere, Karnataka, over a flex banner bearing the message “I Love Muhammad.” The conflict began when youths from a different community demanded the removal of the banner. According to SP Davanagere Uma Prashnath, large groups had gathered from both sides, but police promptly intervened and dispersed the crowd.
During the altercation, stones were thrown, resulting in damage to several houses and injuring a young girl who was subsequently admitted to a government hospital.
### Background: Initial Clash in Uttar Pradesh
The controversy originated on September 4 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh. During a Barawafat procession, local youths displayed green flags and posters with the phrase “I Love Muhammad.” By the evening, similar banners appeared at various traffic crossings and shopfronts throughout Beconganj and Anwarganj.
Locals described the banners as purely devotional in intent. However, some local Hindu groups objected, claiming that this introduced a “new tradition” in spaces long used for Barawafat celebrations, sparking unrest.
### Spread of Controversy Across States
The dispute quickly escalated and spread to other parts of Uttar Pradesh and across various states including Uttarakhand, Telangana, Maharashtra (Nagpur, Mumbai), Hyderabad, and Kashipur.
In Bareilly, police prevented the installation of a large “I Love Muhammad” hoarding near Dargah Ala Hazrat, citing concerns over traffic congestion during Friday prayers. This led to a brief sit-in protest, which was called off following talks with district officials.
### Violent Protests and Police Action
In Kashipur, a protest turned violent, prompting arrests and the demolition of unauthorized structures by district authorities. Police maintained that the demonstration took place without permission.
District SSP Manikant Mishra reported that police efforts to control the crowd were met with attacks and vandalism of police vehicles. “Seven people have been arrested and 10 detained. The mastermind, Nadeem Akhtar, is being interrogated to identify the origins of these activities that culminated in violence,” he said.
### Efforts to Restore Peace
Peace committee meetings have been conducted in Kanpur, Bareilly, and Sambhal to appeal for calm and communal harmony. Religious leaders have condemned the violence while urging sensitivity from government authorities.
AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi addressed the issue as a matter of constitutional rights, stating, “Saying ‘I Love Muhammad’ is not a crime. If it is, then I accept any punishment. But Muslims must not be harassed for expressing their devotion.”
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The situation remains sensitive as authorities continue efforts to maintain peace and address community concerns amid ongoing tensions.
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