UP STF Nabs Maulana Abdullah Salim Over Controversial Comment On CM Yogi’s Mother

India

oi-Gaurav Sharma

Published: Tuesday, March 31, 2026, 14:47 [IST]

A cleric from Bihar has been taken into custody by the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) following alleged objectionable remarks directed at the mother of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

The accused, Maulana Abdullah Salim, hails from Jokihat in Araria district and was picked up from Purnea late on Monday night. After his arrest, he was transported to Gorakhpur, where further legal proceedings are expected. Officials, however, have not yet confirmed whether he will be questioned there or moved to Lucknow.

The case has drawn widespread attention, with police confirming that complaints were filed across several states. More than 80 FIRs have reportedly been registered, underscoring the scale of public anger over the alleged remarks.

Viral Video Triggers Outrage

According to investigators, the controversy began earlier this month when Salim allegedly made provocative statements during a religious gathering held in Ramadan. The remarks, which also reportedly touched on sensitive issues like “Gau Mata” and cow slaughter laws in Uttar Pradesh, were captured on video and rapidly circulated online.

As the clip went viral, protests broke out in parts of Uttar Pradesh, with groups demanding strict action against the cleric.

Alleged Political Links Surface

Reports suggest that Salim may have connections with the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen, adding a political dimension to the controversy.

Meanwhile, Akhtarul Iman, an MLA from Bihar’s Amaur constituency, said there was initial confusion over the nature of Salim’s detention.

“We were informed that some people had taken him away, but it was not immediately clear whether it was an arrest or something else,” Iman said, noting that local authorities were alerted.

Probe Expands

Investigators are now working to identify others who may have been involved, while keeping a close watch on the situation given its sensitive nature.

Authorities have stressed that maintaining law and order remains a priority as the probe continues.