Violent protests after Friday prayers in Bareilly; Police resort to lathicharge

Since Friday morning, Islamia Maidan and Biharipur were turned into cantonments. A heavy police force was deployed, along with barricades, on the Shyamganj Mandi road.

Bareilly: Following Friday prayers in Bareilly, members of the Muslim community protested, carrying banners reading "I Love Mohammad." Hundreds of people took to the streets, chanting slogans, in various areas of the city. Some miscreants vandalized a building near Khalil School, prompting police to lathicharge to control the situation. Maulana Tauqeer Raza, head of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC), was also placed under house arrest.

Tight Security Measures

Since Friday morning, Islamia Maidan and Biharipur were turned into cantonments. A heavy police force was deployed, along with barricades, on the Shyamganj Mandi road. The tourist area remained completely closed. By afternoon, people began coming out of their homes and took to the streets in processions after Friday prayers. However, the protests also witnessed violence and vandalism.

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Police Take Tough Stance

Police attempted to stop protesters in Shyamganj. There was a scuffle between them. As the situation became tense, the police closed the shops. Protesters damaged vehicles near Khalil School. Police tried to persuade them, but they refused. When the police resorted to lathicharge, a stampede broke out, with stones and slippers scattered on the streets.

Maulana Tauqeer Raza's Statement and Detention

IMC chief Maulana Tauqeer Raza released a video on Friday morning, dismissing media reports as false. He claimed that the police administration and some informants had conspired. He said that action would be taken according to his announcement. The Maulana had talked about sending a memorandum to the President through the District Magistrate regarding the "I Love Mohammad" issue and appealed to the people for peaceful protests. Following this, he was placed under house arrest.

DIG's Statement: Namaz Peaceful, Miscreants Chased Away

Digi Range Bareilly Ajay Kumar Sahni said that Friday prayers were held peacefully. Some miscreants wanted to disrupt the atmosphere, but the police took strict action and dispersed them. He said that the police are handling the situation with utmost vigilance.

City Quiet Amid Tension

Following the protests and lathicharge, Bareilly's markets and bus station were deserted in the evening. Police have increased security in the city and are exercising vigilance to control the situation. The administration has assured to take all possible steps to maintain peace and prevent any untoward incident.