Congress MP says peace meetings should promote harmony, not threats
March 13, 2026: Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi has criticised remarks made by a police officer during a peace committee meeting in Sambhal, saying such gatherings should promote harmony rather than appear threatening. Reacting to the statement, the leader said meetings aimed at maintaining communal peace should encourage brotherhood and understanding. “People who are protesting in support of Israel, where should they go then?” Pratapgarhi asked, adding that the language used in such forums must reflect responsibility.
The controversy began after comments by police officer Kuldeep Kumar during a meeting organised by the local administration to discuss law and order in the district. Responding to the debate, BJP MP Manoj Tiwari said ideological differences and demonstrations are part of a democratic system. He added that in a country like India, supporters of different ideologies often take to the streets to express their views.
The issue gained momentum after a video of Kumar’s remarks circulated widely on social media. In the clip, the officer is heard referring to international conflicts and warning people against creating tensions in India over foreign issues. He suggested that those strongly concerned about the war could travel to Iran to express their support. Local authorities later said maintaining law and order remains their priority and that public activities must follow established rules.