Iranian tourists detained for offering namaz near Taj Mahal, issue apology

Uttar Pradesh’s Agra police detained Iranian tourists on Sunday, November 3 after they allegedly offered namaz (praying) near the eastern gate of the Taj Mahal, reportedly a temple, leading to protests from Hindu community members.

The incident escalated when the local individuals noticed the Iranian couple offering namaz inside the temple situated near the iconic monument and heckled them. The furious group objected and created a chaotic scene. Some



individuals harassed the couple and checked their passports, questioning their “motives” for praying in such a public space.

In defence, the tourists explained that they were searching for a place to pray, but they could not find one in that area. Upon finding a “clean place” where nobody was around, so they decided to pray there. However, their actions provoked aggression from some Hindu members who attacked and chased them, prompting police to intervene.