Bareilly: Authorities have placed four districts within the Bareilly division of Uttar Pradesh on high alert ahead of Dussehra festivities. Security has been significantly increased with the deployment of police, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel, while drones are being used for aerial surveillance.
The state government has also suspended internet services in Bareilly for 48 hours, news agency PTI reported, citing officials. This heightened security follows a violent clash on September 26 in the Kotwali area, which erupted after a protest related to an “I Love Muhammad” poster.
A notification from the home department confirmed that mobile internet, broadband, and SMS services in Bareilly would be suspended from 3 pm on October 2 until 3 pm on October 4. Home Secretary Gaurav Dayal stated the measure was necessary to prevent the misuse of social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and WhatsApp for spreading rumors and inciting communal tensions. “This step is being taken to maintain peace and public order,” Dayal said.
High Alert Across the Division
Divisional Commissioner Bhupendra S Chaudhary has declared a high alert for the districts of Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun. According to PTI, police have been ordered to maintain strict vigilance at Ramlila grounds, Durga Puja fairs, and Ravan Dahan events, which are expected to draw large crowds. Chaudhary warned that any lapse in duty by officials would result in “stern action.” Intelligence agencies have also been activated, with teams deployed across sensitive areas. An official confirmed, “Armed police forces are being positioned at sensitive locations to ensure the disturbances witnessed in Bareilly do not spill over to neighbouring districts.”
‘I Love Muhammad’ Row
The stringent measures were prompted by a clash on September 26, when approximately 2,000 people protested outside a mosque in Kotwali after Friday prayers. The demonstration was part of the “I Love Muhammad” campaign, initiated by Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC) chief Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan.
Police reported that the gathering turned violent in the Maulana’s absence, leading to vandalism of shops and vehicles. Authorities responded with a lathicharge and fired tear gas to disperse the mob. The clashes resulted in injuries to 22 police personnel. Subsequently, 10 FIRs were registered, naming 125 accused and nearly 3,000 unidentified individuals. Maulana Tauqeer Raza has been named in seven of these cases. As of Wednesday, 81 people have been arrested in connection with the violence.