Muslim cleric Abdullah Salim Qasmi was released from Bahraich jail on Friday after a local court granted him bail in a case linked to alleged objectionable remarks about Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s mother. The court has fixed April 13 as the next date of hearing in the matter.
Qasmi had been arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force on March 30 from Purnia in Bihar and later sent to judicial custody after being produced before a court in Bahraich on March 31.
Case linked to old Bhagalpur speech
The case originates from a speech allegedly delivered around four years ago in Bhagalpur, Bihar, where Qasmi reportedly made controversial remarks while speaking about cow slaughter laws in Uttar Pradesh and alleged harassment of Muslims.
A video of the speech later surfaced on social media, leading to a complaint earlier this month. Following this, multiple cases were registered against him in different locations.
According to reports, the complaint was filed after a letter from a local functionary of a Hindu organisation. Supporters of Qasmi claim that over 100 cases have been filed against him, describing the legal action as excessive.
Apology issued after arrest
After his arrest, Qasmi issued a public apology, acknowledging that his words were inappropriate.
He said, “I, Abdullah Salim Qasmi, accept my mistake. During a programme in Bhagalpur, some words about the Chief Minister’s mother were spoken which should not have been said. I apologise for this and seek forgiveness.”
He also appealed for restraint in public discourse, saying, “Such words should not be used on any platform. I advise others as well to be careful.”
Political and legal background
Qasmi, a resident of Jokihat in Bihar’s Araria district, is a known cleric with a significant following on social media. His speeches are frequently shared online and his events are often scheduled months in advance.
He has also been associated with the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) in the Seemanchal region and had shown interest in contesting the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections from Jokihat, though he did not receive a party ticket.
Following his arrest, some supporters alleged that he was being targeted politically, though these claims have not been independently verified.
Case raises questions over old speeches and legal action
The incident has triggered wider debate about how old speeches are used as grounds for legal action years later, especially when they involve sensitive religious and political issues.
Authorities have urged calm as the case continues in court. With the bail granted, Qasmi remains out of jail, and the matter will be heard again on April 13.
