Man in Saffron Allegedly Identified as Muslim caught begging in Shamli. Probe Underway
Vedkheri Viral Video Sparks Controversy: Man in Saffron Allegedly Identified as Muslim, Probe Underway
Shamli, Uttar Pradesh – July 11, 2025 — A viral video circulating on social media has sparked tension and controversy in Vedkheri village, located in Uttar Pradesh’s Shamli district, after it allegedly showed a Muslim man posing as a Hindu sadhu while begging in saffron robes.
The video, which has amassed thousands of views, claims that the man seen in the footage is Shahzad, a Muslim resident, who was masquerading as a Hindu ascetic under the name Sonu Upadhyay.
Police Confirm Investigation into Alleged Religious Impersonation
Speaking to the media, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Santosh Kumar Singh confirmed that Jhinjhana police have taken cognizance of the matter and are actively investigating the authenticity of the viral video and the identity of the individual.
“A video with the claim that one Shahzad was begging wearing saffron clothes and posing as Sonu Upadhyay has gone viral on social media,” ASP Singh said on Friday.
Authorities have launched a multi-level probe to examine the man’s true identity and assess whether any illegal activities were committed under the guise of religious impersonation.
Key Focus Areas of the Police Investigation
According to ASP Singh, the primary lines of investigation include:
- Verifying the man’s legal identity and real name
- Examining any criminal background or prior offences
- Assessing his motive for wearing saffron robes and assuming a Hindu name
- Investigating any illegal acts conducted while impersonating a sadhu
“It will also be probed whether he was indulging in any illegal activities under the garb of begging,” Singh added.
As of now, the man has not been arrested, but police questioning and background checks are ongoing.
Communal Sensitivity and Social Media Reactions
The video has triggered strong reactions on both social media and within the local community. Given the sensitive religious dynamics in the region, several users have expressed concern that such impersonation could provoke communal unrest.
- Supporters of strict action have demanded that legal proceedings be initiated if impersonation is confirmed.
- Others have urged restraint, warning that social media videos can be misleading or lack context.
Some netizens have called for thorough investigation and legal process rather than jumping to conclusions based on a viral clip.
Local Impact in Vedkheri and Shamli District
Vedkheri village has witnessed increased police presence and patrolling in the wake of the controversy to prevent any law and order disruption. Community leaders have urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified claims.
The district administration has also warned against misuse of social media platforms to incite hatred or spread misinformation.
Legal Provisions and Religious Impersonation
If found guilty of impersonation or deceptive conduct under religious guise, the individual may face charges under:
- Section 419 of the IPC (cheating by personation)
- Section 295A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings)
- IT Act provisions, if the video was disseminated with malicious intent
Legal experts note that intent and harm caused will be central to deciding the legal consequences.