Navi Mumbai: A man was detained by the police in Navi Mumbai for allegedly uploading the image of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb as his WhatsApp profile picture. The incident, which sparked controversy and tension, led to the man being booked by the Mumbai Police.
According to the police, Amarjeet Surve, a member of a Hindu organization, came across a screenshot in which a person had used Aurangzeb’s image as his profile picture. Concerned about the present scenario surrounding Aurangzeb in the state, Amarjeet reached out to the accused, whose number was displayed along with the profile picture, and requested him to remove it. The accused claimed to be in a bad mood but promised to remove the picture. However, Amarjeet later discovered that the image was not taken down, prompting him to file a complaint at the Vashi police station in Navi Mumbai.
Based on Amarjeet’s complaint, the police registered a case under sections 298 and 153-A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deal with hurting religious feelings and promoting enmity between different groups based on religion, race, or place of birth. The accused was subsequently detained, questioned, and later released. No arrests have been made in connection with the case so far.
The incident comes in the wake of communal tensions and protests in various cities of Maharashtra over the alleged glorification of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan. In Kolhapur, a social media post that purportedly glorified Aurangzeb and disrespected a Maratha national icon sparked protests, leading to a bandh called by right-wing outfits. The situation quickly escalated into violent demonstrations.
“We will not tolerate the glorification of Mughal leaders on our Maratha land. We are ready to pick up swords for the protection of Hindu society. This will not be tolerated,” an aggressive protester voiced.
Similarly, in Sangamner town, a rally organized by Sakal Hindu Samaj witnessed stone-pelting in response to the alleged murder of a boy. Two individuals were injured, and several vehicles were damaged during the incident. Additionally, objectionable slogans were raised and a poster of Aurangzeb was displayed during a religious procession in Sangamner, further fueling the tensions.
The Mumbai Police’s action in detaining the man for using Aurangzeb’s image as his WhatsApp profile picture highlights the sensitivity surrounding historical figures and the potential for social and communal unrest. As the investigation progresses, authorities aim to maintain peace and harmony while addressing the concerns raised by different communities.
Sources By Agencies
