Bareilly Administration On High Alert Ahead Of Friday Prayers: DM Avinash Singh

Bareilly District Magistrate Avinash Singh said the administration is on full alert to prevent incidents like the September 26 riots from recurring. He assured residents that authorities are enforcing the government’s zero-tolerance policy to maintain peace ahead of Friday prayers.

Addressing preparations for Friday, Singh told IANS that security forces remain vigilant and that police acted swiftly during last week’s unrest.

“Last Friday, some external elements tried to create unrest in Bareilly and breach law and order. But within one to two hours, the police controlled the situation and arrested the perpetrators. Further proceedings are underway. We are on complete alert,” he said.

The DM added that authorities are using CCTV cameras and drones to monitor potential trouble spots and track external actors.

Singh said district authorities are in constant touch with spiritual leaders from all communities to ensure peace.

“We are listening to their concerns and sharing our plans with them. I urge the people of Bareilly—this is your district, and we need the help of every citizen. If you hear of any such incident, please inform the control room,” he said.

He also warned residents against rumours, “If anyone is spreading false information, do not pay attention. Inform us so we can take strict action. We are working to ensure Friday prayers are held peacefully, and I fully believe this will happen.”

Singh reiterated that the administration would uphold the government’s zero-tolerance policy.

“No innocent person will be harassed, but the culprits and external instigators will not be spared. These miscreants have no caste or religion—they are criminals and belong in jail. We will ensure strict action so it sends a message to future generations,” he said.

Recap: September 26 Riots in Bareilly

The Bareilly riots erupted on September 26 after Friday prayers when a large group of people marched with placards and posters reading ‘I Love Muhammad’ toward Islamia Ground and Khalil School Chowk.

Police asked the crowd to disperse when protesters began chanting slogans, but the crowd became unruly. Some individuals reportedly pelted stones at police, prompting a baton charge, which led to a stampede-like situation.

Rioters also vandalised motorcycles and targeted a local shop, leaving chaos in a 200-metre radius near Khalil Tiraha.

On September 27, authorities arrested Tauqeer Raza, a local cleric and chief of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, for supporting the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign that sparked unrest.

A crowd had gathered outside his residence after a viral video supporting the campaign.

Tauqeer Raza is now in 14 days’ judicial custody, while officials continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent further flare-ups.

The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) condemned the arrests and demanded the immediate release of Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan and others, criticising the Uttar Pradesh government’s handling of the situation.

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