Moradabad SP leader booked for offering namaz in Circuit House

Police in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Haji Mohammad Usman, a district vice-president of the Samajwadi Party (SP), following a viral video showing him offering namaz within the government Circuit House premises.

The incident occurred on September 3 during a meeting of Samajwadi Party leaders. According to the complaint filed by the Public Works Department (PWD) in-charge, Anit Kumar, Usman allegedly parked his vehicle on a road within the premises and performed prayers behind it, causing an obstruction to traffic and public movement. The case has been registered under sections 285 and 292 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for public nuisance and causing danger or obstruction in a public way.

The event has triggered significant political debate. Members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) have criticized the act, suggesting it is a political tactic ahead of the 2027 assembly elections. Conversely, leaders from the Congress party have condemned the legal action, alleging that Usman is being targeted due to his religious identity.