The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad has arrested a Muslim cleric, identified as Mufti Zakir, from Deoband over allegations of sharing inflammatory content on social media and maintaining contact with individuals in Pakistan, police said.
According to officials, the accused was allegedly posting and circulating content aimed at inciting communal tension. The posts are said to have opposed several major legal and political developments, including the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), National Register of Citizens (NRC), University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, and the Ram Temple verdict.
Police also claimed that he shared material related to protests linked to the “I Love Mohammed” campaign.
Alleged Foreign Links
Investigators further alleged that Mufti Zakir was in contact with individuals in Pakistan through messaging platforms such as WhatsApp. His mobile phone has been seized and is under forensic examination.
Authorities said they are analysing his digital footprint to determine the extent of his communication network and whether it involved coordinated activity.
Investigation and Background Claims
The FIR reportedly states that the cleric was influenced by online content, including videos of jailed activist Umar Khalid, and was allegedly critical of religious leaders and political figures who promote communal harmony.
The Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad also said local police have been placed on alert and surveillance has been increased in sensitive areas.
