Bareilly remains on edge as police tighten security, suspend internet, and arrest dozens after protests over the “I Love Muhammad” campaign. IMC leader Tazeem shot in leg during crackdown.
By Qalam Times News Network
Bareilly | October 2, 2025
Security Clampdown in Bareilly
Bareilly has turned into a high-security zone during the festive season after police launched a sweeping crackdown following protests linked to the “I Love Muhammad” campaign. Authorities have suspended internet services for two days, deployed large contingents of police, and stationed armed forces across four districts on high alert.
According to a directive issued by the state home department, mobile internet, broadband, and SMS services were suspended in Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun from October 2 to October 4 under Section 7 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules, 2017. The order, confirmed by news agency PTI, was sent to the DGP, DM, and SSP of Bareilly.
Home Secretary Gaurav Dayal stated that the restrictions were necessary to maintain “law and order” and prevent the spread of online rumours that could fuel communal tensions.
Deployment at Festive Gatherings
Provisional Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed across sensitive areas, including Ramleela grounds, Durga Puja fairs, and Ravan Dahan events. Authorities said the measures were precautionary to avoid any disturbances during the crowded festive season.
The Protest and Its Aftermath
The crackdown follows a September 26 demonstration in Bareilly led by cleric and Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC) chief Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan. The protest was held to demand the withdrawal of FIRs filed against Muslims for displaying placards with the slogan “I Love Muhammad.”
Police accused protestors of stone pelting, but video footage circulating online shows officers using lathis as demonstrators appeared to gather peacefully. Activists have condemned the arrests and raids, calling them “collective punishment” for a religious expression.
IMC Leader Tazeem Shot
On Tuesday, police shot IMC leader Tazeem in the leg while attempting to arrest him. Officials claim he opened fire with a country-made pistol, prompting police retaliation. Additional SP Manush Pareek told reporters, “When we tried to arrest him, he opened fire at the team. In self-defence, our men responded by shooting him in the leg.”
Tazeem, described as a close associate of Maulana Tauqeer Raza, has previously been booked under the UP Gangster Act and faces allegations related to cow slaughter. His associates Mohammad Idris and Iqbal were also arrested on Wednesday morning.
Rising Arrests and Tensions
Since the September 26 protest, police have arrested over 73 individuals, including several Muslim youths and even minors allegedly picked up from their homes. Families and activists argue that many of those detained did not participate in the protest and were targeted because of their identity.
So far, 17 more men have been arrested this week alone. Locals insist that video evidence shows police charging at demonstrators who were peacefully trying to submit a memorandum to the President of India.
Situation Remains Volatile
With heavy deployment across Bareilly and surrounding districts, tension remains high. Police say the steps are necessary to prevent violence, but critics argue that the clampdown disproportionately targets Muslims.
