Controversial Video from Raisen Fort Sparks Outrage Over Iran Support
Viral Video Raises Concerns
A video originating from the historic Raisen Fort in Madhya Pradesh has gone viral on social media, showing a group of young men allegedly firing a cannon in support of Iran while chanting 'Allahu Akbar.' This incident has emerged amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, igniting significant controversy.
In the footage, four young men are seen standing on the fort's ramparts, shouting slogans such as 'We are going to support Iran... Allahu Akbar!' and 'Muslims of India were not afraid yesterday, nor will they be today.' Following this, one individual ignites a homemade cannon with a match, resulting in a cannon shot. Some reports suggest that the cannon was fired towards a residential area, posing a potential safety risk.
The fort is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and such activities are considered against regulations. The video's circulation has led to widespread uproar on social media, with many labeling it as religious fanaticism, a threat to communal harmony, and a risk to national security. Hindu organizations have also expressed their discontent.
In response, the Raisen police took immediate action, arresting the four individuals featured in the video—Shadab Qureshi, Yusuf Sheikh, Wasim Mohammad, and Salman Qureshi—who are reported to be residents of the Bhopal-Raisen area. The police have filed charges for hurting religious sentiments and other offenses, with an investigation currently underway.
Some reports indicate that there may be an old tradition of firing cannons from the fort to signal Sehri or Iftar during Ramadan, but the slogans supporting Iran and the video's context have made it contentious. Authorities have stated that all aspects are being examined in the investigation, including the possibility of the video being edited.
This incident highlights the communal sensitivities in India amidst international tensions, and the police's firm stance reflects their commitment to maintaining order.