Following violent protests in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, heavy police deployment continues in the city. The unrest was triggered by demonstrations supporting the "I Love Muhammad" campaign, which escalated after Friday prayers.
The controversy began after an FIR was filed against 24 people in Kanpur for allegedly displaying "I Love Muhammad" posters during an Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi procession on September 4. Some Hindu groups objected to the posters, leading to tensions and similar protests in other Uttar Pradesh districts, as well as in Uttarakhand and Karnataka.
On September 26, 2025, tensions in Bareilly intensified after police prevented demonstrators carrying "I Love Muhammad" placards from gathering. According to police, some protesters hurled stones and raised slogans, prompting a police response involving a lathi charge to disperse the crowd. Some protesters allegedly opened fire. Several police officers were injured during the clashes. Visuals of the incident showed police chasing protesters, with the area strewn with posters, shoes, and slippers.
In response to the violence, authorities arrested Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, a local cleric and president of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, along with several others. Raza had called for the protest in support of the "I Love Muhammad" campaign. Police said Raza misled supporters by saying he had left for Delhi. DIG Ajay Kumar Sahni described the violence as a pre-planned conspiracy. Police have registered multiple FIRs at different police stations in Bareilly district. At least 39 people have been detained in connection with the violence.
The Bareilly administration has taken measures in the aftermath of the protests. Internet services were suspended for 48 hours to prevent the spread of rumors. On Monday, September 29, the suspension was extended for another day. Authorities also sealed 38 shops, mainly belonging to the minority community, in a market complex at Novelty Chowk, alleging encroachment on Waqf land and government land. Shop owners have alleged that this action was a reprisal for the Friday clashes. Additionally, three banquet halls linked to another accused were also sealed.
Political reactions to the events have been varied. AIMIM's Asaduddin Owaisi questioned the restrictions on expressing love for Prophet Muhammad, while SP chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the police action. The BJP has instructed its leaders to refrain from making public statements on the issue. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath warned that no one can hold the system hostage with street protests.
As of September 30, 2025, heavy police deployment remains in Bareilly. Authorities are using CCTV footage, drone surveillance, and manual intelligence to identify and arrest rioters. The police have appealed to residents to remain calm and follow the law.
