On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, business activities in Afzalgunj, Hyderabad, came to a standstill as Muslim traders and businessmen participated in a bandh to protest the derogatory remarks made by controversial preacher Yati Narsinghanand Saraswati about Prophet Muhammad.

The protest was organized by Tahreek Muslim Shabban (TMS) in collaboration with various groups and individuals. Shops and business establishments in Afzalgunj remained closed throughout the day, with traders expressing their discontent over the lack of action against Narsinghanand’s comments.

The bandh’s impact spread beyond Afzalgunj, with businesses in Charminar and Siddiamber Bazaar also observing the closure in solidarity. “The remarks made against Prophet Muhammad are offensive and deeply hurtful. It is disheartening that authorities have not yet taken any steps to address this issue. We are hoping the Telangana government will take appropriate action,” one trader stated.

The protest remained peaceful, with traders encouraging others in neighboring areas to join the closure in support. TMS office bearer Mustaq Mallik had earlier called for the protest, urging people to close their businesses until the evening of October 29 and asking khateebs at local mosques to inform congregants about the issue during Friday prayers.