APCR flags hate speech, seeks police action ahead of Eid in Uttam Nagar
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New Delhi: The Association for Protection of Civil Rights has urged the Delhi Police to take immediate action to prevent potential communal unrest in West Delhi’s Uttam Nagar ahead of Eid, citing rising instances of hate speech, inflammatory messaging and public mobilisation targeting the Muslim community.
In a representation submitted on March 15, 2026, the organisation flagged a series of speeches, posters and social media content allegedly inciting violence against Muslims in J.J. Colony and nearby areas. It warned that the situation has escalated following a March 4 clash between two families, which it said is being deliberately communalised by certain groups.
According to APCR, what began as a personal dispute is now being used to provoke tensions. Reports, including by The Wire, indicate that the killing of 26-year-old Tarun Kumar after a Holi-related dispute over a water balloon is being projected as a communal flashpoint.
The organisation said several speeches circulating online and delivered at public gatherings contain explicit threats, including claims that Muslims will not be allowed to celebrate Eid in Uttam Nagar. Some statements reportedly called for forcibly playing Holi with Muslims on the day of Eid and for violence to occur before Eid prayers.
APCR also highlighted the circulation of posters announcing Holi celebrations in Uttam Nagar on March 20, which coincides with Eid this year. It cautioned that such messaging, combined with provocative rhetoric, has created an atmosphere of fear among local residents.
Every year, thousands gather for Eid prayers at the Eidgah in J.J. Colony, but residents are now reportedly concerned about their safety and their ability to observe the festival peacefully.
The organisation said it has informed the Delhi Police via email and filed a formal complaint with the Cyber Cell over the circulation of inflammatory content online.
In its letter, submitted by national secretary Mohammad Wasiq Nadim Khan, APCR called on the police to identify and take strict legal action against those spreading hate speech and inciting violence. It also urged increased patrolling, public advisories to maintain peace, and adequate security arrangements in and around the Eidgah and nearby mosques.
Copies of the representation were also sent to the Assistant Commissioner of Police of the Dabri Sub-Division and the Station House Officer of the Uttam Nagar Police Station.