Enhanced Security Measures in Bareilly Following Religious Tensions: A Comprehensive Update

Internet services remained suspended in Bareilly with markets showing significantly reduced activity as authorities heightened security measures.

Bareilly (UP):

Enhanced security protocols were implemented across numerous sensitive areas in Bareilly prior to Friday evening prayers, exactly one week after violent incidents followed congregational prayers in the city.

The district magistrate and senior superintendent of police conducted extensive patrols throughout the city with substantial police presence since early morning. Meanwhile, religious leaders from the Ala Hazrat Dargah issued appeals for peace and calm among residents.

Internet connectivity continued to be restricted across Bareilly, with noticeably sparse attendance observed in local marketplaces.

The previous week, on September 26, violent confrontations erupted between locals and police in the city center following Friday prayers, after authorities cancelled a planned demonstration regarding "I Love Muhammad" posters. The clashes resulted in multiple injuries.

Law enforcement has registered 10 FIRs and charged hundreds of individuals, predominantly unidentified suspects, in connection with the violence. Authorities have arrested over 70 people so far, including religious leader Tauqeer Raza Khan, several of his associates, and some family members.

District Magistrate Avnish Singh confirmed that senior police and administrative officials spent Thursday night conducting tours through sensitive areas and engaging with community members, who provided assurances that communal harmony would be maintained.

"Our foot patrols are continuing. The security arrangements are comprehensive and foolproof," Singh stated.

Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya explained that the city has been strategically divided into four super zones and eight zones for enhanced surveillance. Four IPS officers have been deployed from neighboring districts to provide specialized monitoring.

Significant police and paramilitary forces were stationed outside major religious sites including Nau Mahal Masjid, Ala Hazrat Dargah, Azam Nagar Masjid in the Kotwali area, and Baradari mosque. Authorities have also deployed drone cameras to monitor the situation from above.

While markets including Roadways Bazaar, Kutubkhana, Shivaji Marg, Alamgirganj, Sarafa, Sahmatganj, and Qila Bazaar opened on Friday, they lacked their typical energy and customer flow. Shopkeepers remained vigilant and prepared to close immediately should any disturbances arise.

Sajjadanashin of Ala Hazrat Dargah, Badrush Shariah Mufti Ahsan Miyan, called upon Muslims to offer their Friday prayers peacefully and return directly to their homes afterward.

"Disregard rumors. Maintaining peace is absolutely essential," he emphasized in his public appeal.

The religious leader also announced the cancellation of the annual 'Julus-e-Gausia' procession, traditionally held to commemorate the Urs of Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jilani, due to the present circumstances.

Instead, a abbreviated ceremony will take place at 2 pm on Saturday at Sailani Raza Chowk, featuring addresses by religious leaders, followed by special prayers and 'langar' distribution.

Mufti Ahsan Miyan and Anjuman president Haji Shariq Noori clarified that this modification applies exclusively to this year, with plans to resume the full procession with traditional grandeur next year.