Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh | September 28, 2025 — Tension gripped Bareilly on Friday after a protest over “I Love Muhammad” posters turned violent, leaving at least 10 policemen injured and several vehicles damaged. The Uttar Pradesh Police detained over 50 people, including prominent cleric Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, who has been sent to 14-day judicial custody along with seven associates.
How the Violence Broke Out
The unrest began after Friday prayers when a
large crowd gathered near the Kotwali area of
Bareilly to demonstrate against alleged action
taken on religious posters. The protest,
reportedly called by Tauqeer Raza Khan’s
Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC), soon escalated.
Eyewitnesses said the crowd began pelting
stones at police personnel, while several
government and private vehicles were
vandalized. To disperse the mob, police
resorted to a lathi-charge and fired tear gas shells.
According to officials, more than 1,000 people
had joined the protest. Around 2,000 people
have been booked, and multiple cases of
rioting, unlawful assembly, and conspiracy
have been registered.
Internet Suspended, Heavy Deployment in Bareilly
To prevent rumors and further escalation, the district administration suspended internet services for 48 hours. Additional security forces, including Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF), have been deployed in sensitive areas.
Reacting strongly to the incident, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said:
> “No one can hold the system hostage. Denting-painting must be done for those who repeatedly disturb peace.”
He accused Tauqeer Raza Khan of attempting to disturb communal harmony and assured that strict action would be taken against those involved in the violence.
Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan in Custody
Tauqeer Raza Khan, who was leading the protest, was arrested along with seven close aides. All of them have been remanded to 14-day judicial custody. Police said Khan faces serious charges of incitement, conspiracy, and disturbing public order.
Political and Social Reactions
While the state government termed the clashes a “conspiracy” to disturb law and order, community leaders have appealed for calm. The opposition, however, has questioned the state’s handling of the situation, alleging that poor crowd control allowed the protest to spiral out of hand.
Key Highlights of the Bareilly Violence
Protest triggered by “I Love Muhammad” posters
Clashes after Friday prayers in Kotwali area, Bareilly
10 policemen injured, vehicles vandalized
50+ detained, over 2,000 people booked
Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan arrested, sent to judicial custody
Internet suspended for 48 hours in Bareilly
CM Yogi Adityanath issues warning: “No one can hold the system hostage”
