Bareilly on alert, security tightened before Friday prayers
Bareilly saw widespread violence last week following the cancellation of a demonstration tied to the ‘I Love Muhammad’ poster controversy.
Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh: Tensions remain high in Bareilly as the city braces for Friday prayers this evening, following last week’s outbreak of violence over the controversial ‘I Love Muhammad’ poster row. In response to the unrest, authorities have imposed an internet suspension, deployed additional security personnel, and monitored key areas with drones, aiming to prevent further clashes and maintain peace in the city.
The streets of Bareilly are unusually quiet, almost deserted, as the city waits in anticipation of Friday prayers. Internet services have been shut down since 3 pm on Thursday and are expected to remain suspended until 3 pm on Saturday, October 4, affecting four districts in the region. Officials explained that the temporary suspension aims to prevent the spread of rumours and the incitement of communal tension via social media platforms, including Facebook, YouTube, and WhatsApp.
Security forces are on high alert. Local police, units of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been deployed across the city, especially near mosques, marketplaces, and other sensitive areas. Drones hover above, providing aerial surveillance to ensure quick response in case of any untoward incident. The visible presence of security personnel, combined with the empty streets, underscores the gravity of the situation and the administration’s determination to prevent a repeat of last week’s violence.
Last Week’s ViolenceThe current situation stems from clashes that erupted last week following the cancellation of a demonstration related to the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign. The demonstration had been called by cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan, who urged supporters to gather outside a mosque in Bareilly. Approximately 2,000 people assembled, intending to participate in the demonstration.
However, tensions quickly escalated. Protesters clashed with police after Friday prayers, resulting in chaotic scenes outside the mosque. Reports indicate that the confrontation led to the arrest of 81 individuals. The incident left parts of the city tense and prompted authorities to take preemptive measures ahead of the upcoming Friday prayers.
Authorities have emphasised that the crackdown is a necessary measure to maintain law and order and prevent the spread of communal tensions. The internet suspension, while inconvenient to residents, is intended to curb the rapid dissemination of misinformation that could inflame passions further. Social media has been identified as a major conduit for rumours, particularly during sensitive periods such as religious gatherings or festival celebrations.
Security Measures and Public AdvisoryPolice and administrative officials have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities. All roads leading to mosques and other prominent gathering points have been carefully monitored. Security personnel are conducting random patrols and checking suspicious movements to prevent clashes before they occur.
The deployment is comprehensive. Apart from local police, forces from the PAC and RAF are stationed at key points. Drones equipped with cameras are providing real-time surveillance to help authorities identify potential troublemakers and respond swiftly. These measures aim not just to control crowds but to reassure citizens that the administration is taking every precaution to maintain peace.
Authorities have also issued advisory notices to shopkeepers and local businesses, requesting them to keep establishments closed or operate with caution during the day to reduce risks of public disorder. Citizens have been asked to avoid large gatherings, and mosques have been advised to coordinate with police to ensure orderly prayers.
The current tension originates from the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign, which has sparked debates and protests across parts of Uttar Pradesh. Cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan’s call for a demonstration last week was meant to express solidarity with the campaign. However, the demonstration quickly turned violent when thousands gathered outside the mosque, confronting police.
Authorities stress that maintaining communal harmony is their top priority. The government has balanced preventive measures with efforts to respect citizens’ rights to pray and express themselves. The situation remains delicate, with authorities relying on intelligence inputs and strict monitoring to prevent any flare-up.
As Bareilly prepares for Friday prayers, the city reflects a tense calm — deserted roads, heightened security, and suspended internet. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, cooperate with authorities, and avoid engaging in activities that could escalate tensions. The coming hours will be crucial in determining whether peace prevails and whether the city can move beyond the shadow of last week’s violence.
The administration’s proactive steps, from deploying personnel to suspending internet services, underline the serious approach being taken to prevent history from repeating itself. While the air of tension remains, there is cautious optimism that order will be maintained and that residents can safely perform their religious duties.