KANNUR: A notice issued to a mosque by the police, in the wake of the protests in connection with the Prophet comment row, has sparked a controversy. The notice, directing that religious speech should not be in such a way that incites communal hatred, was sent to the mosque by Kannur Mayyil police.

“In the wake of the special circumstances prevailing in the country in connection with the alleged blasphemy of the Prophet, it is not permissible to give sermons, after prayers on Friday, in such a manner that may disrupt the existing communal harmony or to incite communal hatred. On receiving information about such speeches, appropriate legal action will be taken against concerned people,” stated the notice.

Meantime, the SHO said that he had made a mistake. The commissioner had instructed to give a verbal direction to Mahallu committees. It is understood that it was not right to issue the notice, he said. An explanation has been sought from the SHO in connection with the incident, said Kannur city police commissioner.