Violence in Bareilly erupts after cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan’s protest call over the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign; police arrest him and eight others, register multiple FIRs, and confirm 22 injured officers.
By Qalam Times News Network | Bareilly | September 27, 2025
Violence Sparks Arrests
A day after violence erupted in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly, police arrested Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, president of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC), along with eight associates. Authorities allege that Raza orchestrated the unrest through pre-planned mobilization and online messaging tools. A local court has since remanded him and the others to 14-day judicial custody.
Streets Under Siege
The violence broke out on Friday when a crowd carrying “I Love Muhammad” placards attempted to gather near Islamia Ground after Friday prayers, despite the administration’s refusal to permit the event. Police used force to disperse the crowd after stone-pelting, slogans, and even gunfire were reported. Officials estimate that between 2,500 and 3,000 people participated in the unrest, which left 22 policemen injured.
Security on High Alert
Following the clashes, Bareilly witnessed a heavy security presence. Police checkpoints were set up near Islamia Inter College, while 50–70 officers patrolled Kotwali markets in a show of strength. Shopkeepers along the route were seen showering petals on the police during the march.
FIRs and Seizures
Police confirmed that 11 FIRs have been registered so far, naming Tauqeer Raza in at least seven. Pistols, petrol bottles, and batons were recovered from the scene. DIG Ajay Kumar Sahni said that 49 people have been detained, and a special investigation team (SIT) has been formed to identify others involved in the attacks.
Political and Social Fallout
In a video message released after his arrest, Raza accused the administration of preventing him from addressing his followers and placing him under house arrest. He congratulated the youths who participated in the protest, even those injured, and expressed regret over being unable to submit a memorandum to the President of India. He further alleged that fake statements were circulated under his name to malign him.
The ‘I Love Muhammad’ Row
The controversy traces back to September 9, when Kanpur Police registered a case against 24 people for displaying “I Love Muhammad” banners during an Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi procession. The move triggered objections from Hindu groups and led to similar protests in Bareilly, Uttarakhand, and Karnataka. The row has since escalated, drawing national attention, with AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi stating that expressing devotion to Prophet Muhammad is not a crime.
