A video purportedly showing a police inspector touching the feet of an elderly Muslim man during a Chehlum procession in Sambhal has triggered a political and social controversy, with Hindu organisations staging protests even as many on social media praised the gesture as a symbol of respect.
The authenticity of the viral video has not been officially confirmed.
Viral Video Sparks Debate
The video, widely shared on social media, allegedly shows Sambhal City Inspector Sudhir Panwar touching the feet of an elderly Muslim man, holding his hand and sitting beside him during a Chehlum procession.
Many users described the gesture as an example of India’s tradition of respecting elders and its Ganga-Jamuni culture of communal harmony. Others, however, criticised the police officer’s conduct.
Authorities have not verified the authenticity of the video.
Hindu Organisations Hold Protest
The controversy escalated after workers of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal protested against Inspector Panwar in Sambhal.
Protesters alleged that the officer misbehaved with them during the demonstration. They also claimed that one of their members was detained and made to sit in a police vehicle.
Members of the organisations later gathered outside a police station, recited the Hanuman Chalisa and demanded action against the inspector.
Inspector Transferred
Amid the controversy, the Sambhal Superintendent of Police transferred Inspector Sudhir Panwar from the city police station to Asmoli police station.
Mohit Chaudhary has been appointed as the new city inspector in Sambhal.
According to police officials, the transfer was made as part of routine administrative measures to maintain law and order and meet policing requirements. Authorities have stated that the decision should not be linked directly to the viral video.
