A 70-year-old Muslim man from Uttar Pradesh’s Meerut was arrested within a day after a video of him making controversial remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah went viral on social media.
The accused, identified as Ehsaan, a scrap dealer from the Delhi Gate area, allegedly made the remarks on May 28, during Eid al-Adha celebrations, after Eid prayers near the Railway Road Eidgah.
During an interaction with a local media channel, Ehsaan criticised Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and referred to him as a “gunda” (goon). He also made comments about Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah.
In the viral video, Ehsaan could be heard saying, “Yeh toh gunda hai. Arre sabse bada gunda hai ye (He is a thug. He is the biggest thug of them all).” He also questioned being asked to sing Vande Mataram, saying, “Allah bada hai” (Allah is the greatest).
Police Register Case After Viral Video
Meerut Police said they took cognisance of the video circulating online and registered a case against the elderly man.
“Taking cognisance of the video circulated on social media, a case has been registered under relevant sections against the person who made indecent remarks against respected persons holding constitutional posts,” Meerut Police said in a statement.
Police arrested Ehsaan from his residence on Friday evening, May 29, and brought him to the Railway Road police station for questioning.
According to police officials, legal action was initiated for allegedly disturbing social harmony and making objectionable remarks against constitutional authorities.
CO Cantt Navina Shukla said, “After investigating the viral video, teams were formed and the accused was arrested. A case has been registered and legal action is being taken.”
Accused Seen Holding Ears, Seeking Forgiveness
After his arrest, videos shared by police showed Ehsaan holding his ears and apologising at the police station. He was also seen limping while being escorted by officers outside the station.
According to local reports, Ehsaan admitted during questioning that he made the remarks “in anger” and expressed regret.
“When police brought him out, he repeatedly apologised and said such a mistake would not happen again,” local reports said.
Police said the accused will be produced before a court.
Similar Incident Earlier This Year
The arrest comes months after another case in Uttar Pradesh involving controversial remarks against Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. In March, police arrested Maulana Abdul Saleem Chaturvedi after a video surfaced showing him allegedly making objectionable comments about the chief minister’s mother.
