BIHAR,01,APRIL,2026,(PUNJAB TODAY NEWS CA):- This case has rapidly developed over the last few days, culminating in the arrest of the cleric in Bihar. The incident centers on a viral video of a speech that has sparked widespread outrage across Uttar Pradesh.
Here are the key details of the situation:
The Arrest
On March 30, 2026, the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) arrested Maulana Abdullah Salim (also known as Maulana Abdullah Salim Chaturvedi) in the Purnea district of Bihar. He was subsequently brought to Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh, where a local court remanded him to judicial custody.
The Incident and Charges
- The Remarks: The controversy stems from a speech delivered by Salim on May 5, 2024, during a social reform conference in Bhagalpur, Bihar. In the speech, he reportedly used derogatory and “objectionable” language toward the mother of UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
- The Viral Video: Although the speech was from last year, the video resurfaced and went viral in March 2026, leading to massive protests by various organizations and political leaders in cities like Lucknow, Balrampur, and Kanpur.
- Legal Action: More than 80 FIRs were reportedly filed against him across various districts in UP. He faces charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including:
- Section 196(1): Promoting enmity between different groups.
- Section 299: Deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings.
- Section 353: Statements conducing to public mischief.
The Cleric’s Response
Following his arrest, a video statement was released by the police in which Maulana Salim offered an unconditional apology.
“During the conference, some inappropriate and offensive words came out of my mouth which should not have been spoken… I fold my hands and sincerely apologise for my actions,” he stated, specifically seeking forgiveness from the Chief Minister.
Context of the Cleric
Maulana Salim is a well-known Islamic preacher from Araria, Bihar. He was previously noted for a unique oratory style where he frequently quoted from both the Quran and Hindu scriptures like the Gita and Ramayana to promote cross-religious narratives, making this current controversy a sharp departure from his previous public image.
The Uttar Pradesh government and police have reiterated that strict action will be taken against anyone making inflammatory remarks that threaten communal harmony.
