The Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations in Madhya Pradesh took a political turn on Monday after Palestinian placards were displayed during the mass prayers at Eidgah Maidan in Bhopal. The act triggered a sharp backlash from the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which termed it “objectionable” and “provocative,” demanding strict action against those responsible.

Amid heavy police security, thousands gathered peacefully to offer namaz, but the appearance of Palestinian banners in the crowd led to controversy. Senior BJP leader and state cabinet minister Vishwas Sarang strongly condemned the move, calling it an attempt to create unrest. “Displaying Palestinian placards during a religious festival in India is unacceptable. It reflects the mindset of those who deliberately provoke disturbances in society. The government must identify and take legal action against them,” Sarang stated.

The minister further questioned the relevance of Palestinian symbols during Eid celebrations, asserting that such demonstrations had no place in the state. "This is clearly an attempt to provoke unrest, and such behavior will not be tolerated," he added. The BJP also linked the incident to the opposition Congress, with Sarang accusing the party of fostering what he described as "anti-national activities." Referring to Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi’s previous appearance in Parliament carrying a handbag emblazoned with the word “Palestine,” Sarang claimed that the opposition has encouraged such actions, which is why "the people have rejected them."

The incident has sparked a political debate in the state, with BJP leaders pushing for strict measures, while the opposition Congress has yet to respond to the allegations.

Authorities have not yet announced any legal action, but the display of Palestinian placards during the religious gathering has added a new dimension to the political discourse in Madhya Pradesh.