An Islamic preacher named Mufti Salman Azhari has recently been arrested in India’s Mumbai which led to a gathering of hundreds of his supporters outside the Ghatkopar police station, releasing his freedom.
The concern is who was he and why was he arrested. Let’s have a detailed look at the insides of Mufti Salman and his arrest.
Who is Mufti Salman Azhari?
Salman Azhari is a Sunni Islamic research scholar and also the founder of the Jamia Riyazul Jannah, Al-Amaan Education and Welfare Trust, and Darul Amaan.
Hailing from Mumbai, Azhari enjoys a global following and is often known for his controversial speeches. He studied Dawah Islamiya from Egypt’s Jamia Al-Alzhar.
Why was he arrested?
Over an alleged hate speech. Yes, the Islamic preacher was arrested on Sunday by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad in Mumbai.
He was held under Sections 153B (promoting enmity between different religious groups) and 505 (2) (statements circulated to incite offense against a community) of the Indian Penal Code.
Azhari’s alleged ‘hate speech’
On January 31, a video of a him inciting people against Hindus went viral on social media. He could be seen giving a venomous speech in which he said, “The final battle of Karbala is yet to come… a moment of silence, then there will be noise again. Today is the time of the dogs, tomorrow will be our time).”
After saying this, he chants, “Labbek Ya Rasulullah” and the crowd in front repeats it. This 22-second video is going viral on social media with people demanding action.
Protest
Following the Islamic preacher’s arrest, hundreds of supporters gathered outside the Ghatkopar police station demanding his immediate release. Mufti’s supporters blocked the traffic in the area. So in return, Mumbai Police registered a case against the mob that gathered outside Ghatkopar Police Station.
Previous apprehends
This is not Azhari’s first arrest, he was earlier held in 2018 for his provocative remarks about Hindus while delivering a speech in Karnataka. Reportedly, Azhari was let out on bail after a few days, however, the charges against him are still pending.
