The Uttar Pradesh traffic police have clarified that a viral claim about a Muslim man being fined for having an “I Love Muhammad” sticker on his motorcycle is misleading. The incident occurred in Baghpat, where the man alleged that a traffic officer called the sticker “objectionable” before issuing him a challan. Following the uproar and widespread circulation of the video on social media, the Baghpat traffic police released an official statement on Tuesday, October 7, asserting that the penalty was imposed purely for multiple traffic violations and not for any religious expression.

According to the clarification, the individual was fined ₹7,500 for illegal parking, improper number plate display, and other traffic-related offenses under Sections 122/126, 177, 192, and 179(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act. Police also cautioned the public against spreading misinformation and stated that an internal inquiry is underway to verify all claims surrounding the incident. The clarification emphasized that no action was taken due to the religious sticker, reaffirming the department’s commitment to maintaining law and order without discrimination.

The controversy comes amid growing attention on the “I Love Muhammad” campaign, which first gained traction during Milad-un-Nabi celebrations. Earlier, Kanpur police arrested several youths for displaying similar posters and banners, sparking widespread protests and online solidarity movements across India. A report by the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR) revealed that 21 FIRs have been filed across Uttar Pradesh, naming over 1,300 individuals and resulting in multiple arrests. The latest Baghpat clarification seeks to separate the traffic enforcement issue from the broader social tensions linked to the campaign.