Mohammad bin Ismail | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – What began as a simple iftar meal to unite people has turned into a major controversy in the Uttar Pradesh city of Meerut, with the local Muslim community accusing the police of targeting their traditions. The trouble started when a sub-inspector was suspended for hosting the event at a police outpost, leading many to question why a Muslim religious gathering faces punishment while Hindu celebrations often escape scrutiny.
A 17 March video, now widely shared online, shows Sub-Inspector Shailendra Pratap, the in-charge of Zakir Colony outpost, and Inspector Vishnu Kumar sharing food with Muslim residents during Ramadan. Chairs were set out, meals were served, and the mood was warm — until the Meerut police stepped in. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Rohit Singh Sajwan ordered Pratap’s suspension, calling the iftar a “violation of protocol.” For the city’s Muslims, though, the decision feels like a direct attack.
Muslim leaders quickly condemned the move. “This is an insult to our faith,” said Maulana Irfan Qasmi, a well-known cleric in Meerut. “I’ve seen police stations lit up for Diwali and officers splashing colours during Holi — no one minds. But when we share an iftar, is it suddenly wrong? This isn’t fair.”
The anger runs deep among residents. Arif Khan, a local businessman who attended the iftar, couldn’t hide his frustration. “They want us to keep quiet, to tuck our traditions away while Hindu celebrations get a free pass. If this isn’t biased, what is it?”
Human rights activist Ayesha Parveen called it a sign of something bigger. “Muslims are told to keep their practices hidden, while Hindu rituals are treated as normal. It’s not about rules — it’s about who gets to be visible and who doesn’t.”
SSP Sajwan defended the suspension, saying police outposts are meant for “official duties, not private events.” He added, “We’ve started an inquiry, and more steps will follow its findings.” His words, however, have done little to ease tensions, especially as people recall Hindu religious events held at police stations without any fuss.
This story was originally published in clarionindia.net. Read the full story here.
