Security has been tightened and internet services suspended in Bareilly and nearby districts of Uttar Pradesh ahead of Friday prayers, a week after violent clashes erupted over the controversial ‘I Love Muhammad’ poster row.
Internet Suspended Until Saturday
Authorities announced that internet services will remain suspended in Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun districts until 3 pm on Saturday, October 4. The suspension, which began Thursday afternoon, covers mobile data, SMS services, broadband, and wireless connections.
Officials said the move is aimed at curbing the spread of rumours and preventing the misuse of social media platforms, including Facebook, WhatsApp, and YouTube, to incite communal tensions during Dussehra festivities.
Security Beefed Up, Drones Deployed
In addition to the internet clampdown, Bareilly has witnessed heavy deployment of security forces, including the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), Rapid Action Force (RAF), and local police. Drones are being used for aerial surveillance in sensitive areas.
“All district magistrates, deputy collectors, and police officials must perform their duties responsibly. Any lapse will attract strict action,” warned Divisional Commissioner Bhupendra S. Chaudhary.
Neighbouring districts have also been placed on high alert to ensure that unrest in Bareilly does not spread further.
Background of the Row
The tensions stem from cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan’s call for a demonstration in support of the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign last week. Though the cleric announced a last-minute cancellation of the protest citing lack of permission, over 2,000 people had already gathered outside a mosque.
The cancellation led to anger among protestors, which quickly spiraled into stone-pelting and violent clashes with police, resulting in the arrest of at least 81 people.
Appeals for Peace
Ahead of this week’s Friday prayers, Maulana Ahsan Raza Khan, the seniormost cleric of Ala Hazrat Dargah, has appealed to the Muslim community to maintain peace. He urged devotees to return home immediately after offering prayers to prevent a repeat of last week’s violence
