Bihar cleric apologises for remarks against CM Yogi Adityanath's mother, sent to jail

LUCKNOW: A cleric from Bihar, who was arrested Monday night for his allegedly derogatory remarks against Yogi Adityanath's mother, has tendered an apology in a video statement, seeking forgiveness from the UP chief minister.

Maulana Abdullah Salim was arrested from Purnea by UP STF and brought on transit remand to Bahraich, where he was produced before a court on Tuesday and sent to 14-day judicial remand.

"I, Abdullah Salim, admit my mistake. During the conference, some inappropriate and offensive words came out of my mouth, which should not have been spoken. I fold my hands and sincerely apologise for my actions," he said.

"No statement should be made that hurts any individual, religion or disturbs social harmony," he said, while seeking forgiveness from the CM. Two FIRs were registered against Salim - one at Nagar Kotwali police station in Bahraich and another in Balrampur district - for promoting enmity and making inflammatory statements in a speech delivered by him on May 5, 2024, during a "social reform and educational awareness conference" in Bihar's Bhagalpur district.

Salim allegedly made derogatory remarks targeting Yogi Adityanath's mother, which later surfaced on social media and drew sharp reactions, prompting legal action in Uttar Pradesh.

Bahraich SP Vishwajeet Srivastava told TOI that a chargesheet will be filed against the cleric and ensure that a watertight case is made so that conviction can be achieved in record time.

"During interrogation, he admitted to his remarks and issued an apology," said Amit Pathak, inspector general, Devipatan range.

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