Khamenei's Poster Put Up By Irani Community In Pune, Removed After Bajrang Dal Objection

Last Updated:July 01, 2025, 17:03 IST

According to a senior police official, the banner had been placed at the entrance of a lane in Irani Vasti.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. (Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader via AP)

A poster featuring Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Shia cleric Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani was put up by members of the Irani community in the Loni Kalbhor area near Pune on the occasion of Moharram. The poster was later removed by local authorities after objections were raised by Bajrang Dal activists and a few local journalists.

According to a senior police official, the banner had been placed at the entrance of a lane in Irani Vasti.

While it did not contain any objectionable content, its presence led to concerns from right-wing activists who questioned whether it amounted to the glorification of Iran’s leadership.

The incident took place around 1:00 PM on Monday, when a group of 10–12 people approached the police with their concerns. Officers from the Loni Kalbhor Police Station, including PSI Rajesh Khande, PSI Jadhav, and Constable Ravi Aher, reached the spot and coordinated with the local Gram Panchayat.

Authorities confirmed that the banner had been put up without prior permission. Following this, the police, along with Panchayat officials, had it taken down.

Police said the situation remained peaceful throughout, and no law and order issues were reported. No formal complaint was filed after the removal.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 5) Dr Rajkumar Shinde said, “These posters were put up without obtaining any permission from the local gram panchayat. A notice has been issued to the concerned parties by the panchayat, and police have instructed that no such flags or banners should be displayed."

Similar Case In Uttar Pradesh

A similar incident was reported in Maurawan town of Uttar Pradesh on Sunday, where a poster of Ayatollah Khamenei was seen outside a house in Sayyedabada Mohalla. Police on patrol noticed it and persuaded the residents to remove it voluntarily.

No case was registered, and officials confirmed that the situation remained calm.

(With inputs from agencies)

Location :

Pune Cantonment (Pune Camp), India, India

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