Uttar Pradesh posters referencing Muzaffarnagar riots spark controversy

Controversial posters referencing the 2013 Muzaffarnagar riots have appeared in Saharanpur and Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, sparking political tension. The posters featured a photograph of Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and the message, “Na bhoole the, na bhoole hai, na bhoolenge” (We have never forgotten, nor have we forgotten, nor will we forget) regarding the December 7 date.

Police have removed the posters and launched an investigation, utilizing CCTV footage to identify those responsible. The incident occurs amidst existing friction regarding the demolition of an old mosque within the Saharanpur Collectorate complex, which was declared illegal following a court order.

Political reactions have been divided. Saharanpur Congress MP Imran Masood condemned the posters, calling for strict action to preserve communal harmony. Meanwhile, Bharatiya Kisan Union spokesperson Rakesh Tikait accused the government of using communal issues to gain political advantage ahead of upcoming elections, suggesting the posters may be part of a strategy to revive religious tensions.