In Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur, several Muslim men were arrested after they were allegedly seen waving the Palestinian flag following Eid prayers at Ghanta Ghar. A video of the incident, which has since gone viral on social media, shows a group of young men holding both Indian and Palestinian flags while chanting slogans in solidarity with Palestine. Based on the footage, police registered a case and launched an investigation. Saharanpur SP City Vyom Bindal confirmed that the authorities took note of the video, which depicted individuals waving a “foreign flag” and raising slogans, prompting law enforcement to take action against the participants.
Families of those arrested have strongly denied any wrongdoing, accusing the police of unjustified detentions and misconduct. In Janak Nagar, relatives of 40-year-old Falak claimed he was taken from his home despite having no involvement in the gathering. His mother, Akbari, alleged that a group of 15 to 20 officers entered their house around 2 p.m. without a warrant or female officers present. She claimed that Falak had just returned from offering prayers when he was taken away. Similarly, 21-year-old Uzaif was allegedly taken from his home while he was sleeping. His father, Naseem, recounted how police officers arrived around 1 p.m. and woke him up, demanding he identify people in the video. When he stated he did not recognize anyone, officers reportedly detained him without further explanation.
Frustrated families have repeatedly visited the police station seeking answers but have received little information. They were later informed that their sons were booked under Section 151 of the CrPC, which allows for preventive detention to prevent potential disturbances. However, authorities have yet to provide a copy of the FIR to the families or their legal representatives. The lack of transparency has raised concerns about police action and alleged targeting of Muslim youths over expressions of international solidarity. As the case develops, legal experts and activists continue to demand clarity on the arrests and urge authorities to uphold due process.
