In Bareilly, officials are ramping up security ahead of Friday prayers to prevent any repeat of last week’s clashes. District Magistrate Avinash Singh shared this update on Thursday, stressing that the administration stays on high alert after the violence tied to the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign. He pointed out that the district follows the government’s strict zero-tolerance policy to keep peace.
Singh told reporters that security teams acted fast during the September 26 unrest. “Some outsiders tried to stir up trouble last Friday, but police got things under control in just one or two hours,” he said. “We arrested those responsible, and investigations continue. Everyone in Bareilly should know we’re fully prepared.”
To build trust, local authorities are chatting with religious leaders from all communities. Singh urged residents to stay calm and help out. “We’re listening to spiritual leaders’ worries and explaining our plans,” he added. “This is your city— if you spot anything suspicious, call the control room right away.”
He also warned against rumors spreading online or in person. “Don’t believe the false stories,” Singh said. “Report anyone sharing them so we can act quickly. We’re using CCTV cameras and drones to watch key areas and spot any troublemakers from outside.”
Singh made it clear: no one innocent will face hassle, but criminals behind the Bareilly riots won’t get away. “These people aren’t tied to any religion or caste—they’re just lawbreakers who belong behind bars,” he explained. “We’ll take firm steps to send a strong message and ensure peaceful Friday prayers.”
Looking back, the trouble started on September 26 right after prayers. A big crowd hit the streets with ‘I Love Muhammad’ signs and chants, heading toward Islamia Ground and Khalil School Chowk. When police asked them to scatter as they shouted “Nara-e-Taqbeer,” things turned chaotic. Protesters threw stones, leading to a baton charge that caused a stampede. Rioters damaged two motorcycles and a shop nearby, and the mess left shoes, slippers, and stones strewn over 200 meters around Khalil Tiraha.
The next day, September 27, police arrested Tauqeer Raza, a prominent local cleric and head of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council. His support for the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign went viral in a video, drawing a huge crowd to his home and sparking fears of more Bareilly violence. Raza now faces 14 days in judicial custody as officials keep a close eye on the situation.
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) slammed Raza’s arrest and others linked to the unrest. In a statement Tuesday, the group called for their immediate release and blasted the Uttar Pradesh government’s response to the Bareilly riots.
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