Controversy Erupts in Uttar Pradesh Over Claims About Lord Krishna's Religion
A significant controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh following Maulana Jarjis Ansari's claims that Lord Krishna was a Muslim who prayed five times a day. This assertion, made during a religious gathering, has led to over 95 complaints against him and widespread protests across the state. Political leaders and religious figures are calling for legal action, with accusations directed at opposition parties for allegedly promoting disrespect towards Hindu deities. The situation has escalated, particularly in Mathura, where the Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute adds to the tension. The Muslim community is also voicing criticism, urging the government to take a stand against such inflammatory statements.
| Jul 17, 2026, 16:11 IST
Background of the Controversy
In Uttar Pradesh, over 95 complaints have been filed against Maulana Jarjis Ansari, who controversially claimed that Lord Krishna was a Muslim. This uproar followed the circulation of a month-old video where he asserted that Krishna prayed five times a day. The backlash has led to widespread protests across the state. Ansari, a resident of Etawah, made these remarks during a religious gathering in Jharkhand on June 23. The video resurfaced this week amidst ongoing disputes regarding the Krishna Janmabhoomi land theft case.
Demands for Legal Action
Call for FIR Against the Cleric: Shishir Chaturvedi
The Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha has called for an FIR to be lodged against Ansari. National spokesperson Shishir Chaturvedi stated to reporters at a police station that they are demanding legal action against the cleric. He also urged Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to take action against him. The controversy has now spread to Mathura, where it has gained even more significance due to the Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute. Dinesh Falhari, president of the Krishna Janmabhoomi Sangharsh Nyas, has written to Adityanath requesting stringent legal measures against Ansari. Reports indicate that complaints against him have been filed in several districts across the state, totaling around 95.
Reactions from Political and Religious Leaders
Political Leaders Respond
BJP leader Mohsin Raza has accused opposition parties of promoting such statements. He claimed that parties like the Samajwadi Party and Congress provide a platform for disrespecting Hindu deities. He also mentioned that authorities would investigate potential links to terrorist groups. Criticism of Ansari is also coming from within the Muslim community. Maulana Yasub Abbas, General Secretary of the All India Shia Personal Law Board, stated that such remarks are made solely for cheap popularity. He urged the government to take action against such statements, as they insult Islam and prayer. In an interview, Maulana Yasub emphasized, "These statements are merely attempts to gain cheap popularity. The government should take action against such individuals and initiate legal proceedings. By claiming that a respected figure, who has been a center of faith, prayed, you are tarnishing the image of prayer, Islam, and religion itself. Strict action should be taken against such religious leaders."