Photo: Maktoob Media
An elderly Muslim man from Meerut in Uttar Pradesh was arrested after a video allegedly showed him referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath as “goondas” during an interview with a local media outlet.
The man, identified as Ehsaan, was taken into custody by the Delhi Gate police after the video, which was reportedly recorded following Eid prayers on May 28, circulated widely on social media, Maktoob Media reported.
Videos shared online after his arrest showed Ehsaan standing outside a police station, holding his ears and apologising for his remarks. In the footage, he was seen promising not to repeat the comments in the future. Some videos also appeared to show him limping while issuing the apology.
According to Superintendent of Police Vinayak Gopal Bhosale, the police first verified the authenticity of the viral video before proceeding with legal action. He said that a prima facie case had been established, following which an FIR was registered under the relevant legal provisions and further action was initiated.
In a statement posted on X, the Meerut Police said it had taken cognisance of the viral video and launched legal proceedings against the individual for allegedly making indecent remarks about persons occupying constitutional offices.
The police further stated that cases had also been registered against other individuals accused of encouraging or instigating such acts. According to the statement, Ehsaan had been taken into custody and further legal proceedings were underway.