Jalandhar ‘I Love Muhammad’ row ends with a HUG, Hindu-Muslim leaders vow to maintain peace

The tension that had gripped Jalandhar for nearly a week over the ‘I Love Muhammad’ row finally ended on Tuesday, as the two men at the centre of the controversy — Yogesh Maini and Ayub Khan — shared a hug, marking the return of calm and communal harmony to the city.

The reconciliation took place at the Mayor House, where leaders from both Hindu and Muslim communities gathered to defuse the situation. What began as a street-level altercation concluded with both sides pledging to uphold peace and brotherhood ahead of festive season.

AAP's Jalandhar Central Halka Incharge Nitin Kohli, who played a key role in mediation, said, “Since yesterday, we’ve been trying to ensure that no one’s sentiments are hurt during the festive season. A peace committee will also be formed to prevent such incidents in the future.”

The turning point came after a video surfaced online allegedly showing Yogesh raising slogans while members of the Muslim community were protesting outside the DC Office. The clip went viral, drawing sharp criticism on social media. With Valmiki Jayanti celebrations underway and Diwali approaching, the city’s administration and community leaders were determined not to let tensions escalate further.

As per reports, a senior officer posted at the Punjab Armed Police (PAP) was roped in to hold a series of meetings with representatives from both sides, setting the stage for the peace initiative that followed.

According to those present at the meeting, Ayub Khan, representing the Muslim community hugged Yogesh, saying the matter should end peacefully. Both men agreed that such incidents must not recur and appealed to residents to maintain communal harmony during the festive season.

In the meeting those present include Central Halka Incharge Nitin Kohli, Mayor Vaneet Dhir, several AAP councillors and members of both communities. All emphasized that unity and understanding must prevail in the city during the festive period.

The controversy had erupted on October 3, when members of a Muslim organization, marching to submit a memorandum to the Police Commissioner, raised slogans of “Allahu Akbar” and “I Love Muhammad.” As they reached outside DC Office, Yogesh, riding a scooter, responded with “Jai Shri Ram” slogans, leading to an altercation. Yogesh later alleged that he was threatened and his scooter keys were taken.

The situation quickly escalated, with members of Hindu outfits gathering at BMC Chowk and chanting slogans. Police registered an FIR around 8:30 pm that day, but protests continued, with BJP workers holding demonstrations at BMC Chowk and later at Company Bagh Chowk.

Following Tuesday’s reconciliation, Ayub Khan said, “He’s my elder brother (Yogesh). We’ve always respected each other. This should end here, with peace.”

Yogesh added, “These issues shouldn’t have happened. Let’s celebrate the festivals together.”