Video: Maulana Rashidi slapped by SP workers in Noida TV studio over remarks against MP Dimple Yadav

Muslim cleric Maulana Sajid Rashidi was allegedly assaulted by Samajwadi Party (SP) workers inside a television studio in Noida after he reportedly made derogatory remarks against Mainpuri MP Dimple Yadav during a debate show.

The incident took place on Tuesday during the recording of a news channel's debate programme. Rashidi had earlier made controversial comments regarding Yadav’s recent visit to a mosque, which SP supporters claimed were disrespectful.

सपा सांसद डिंपल यादव पर टिप्पणी करने वाले मौलाना राशिद की नोएडा के न्यूज चैनल में सपा कार्यकर्ताओं ने पिटाई कर दी।@Nishantkaushik0 pic.twitter.com/rxZg1ZQw4t

— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) July 29, 2025

Following the programme, three SP workers — identified as Shyam Singh, Mohit, and Kuldeep Bhati — allegedly slapped Rashidi inside the studio.

One of the accused, Kuldeep Bhati, who claims to be the state secretary of the SP's Yuvjan Sabha, posted a video on social media platform X, taking responsibility for the incident and warning others against making derogatory statements about women.

Another SP worker, Shyam Singh, defended the act, stating that Rashidi had insulted Dimple Yadav on national television.

The news channel lodged a police complaint following the disruption, leading to an FIR against Rashidi and the three SP workers under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)

In a statement to PTI, Maulana Rashidi denied any malicious intent, explaining that his remarks were based on Islamic beliefs and were misinterpreted for political purposes. “If I made a mistake, it doesn’t justify such treatment,” he said. Rashidi also claimed he has since been receiving threatening messages and has approached the Delhi Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) for security.

The SP workers, meanwhile, have also filed a counter-complaint against Rashidi at the Surajpur Police Station in Gautam Budh Nagar.