Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly region is currently under heavy security lockdown, with the internet suspended and security forces deployed in anticipation of potential unrest following Friday prayers this evening.

The heightened tension stems from violence that erupted last week during the ‘I Love Muhammad’ poster row. Following Friday prayers, over 2,000 demonstrators clashed with police outside a mosque after a planned protest was canceled at the last minute, leading to the arrest of 81 people.

Internet Suspended, Security on High Alert

To prevent a repeat of last week’s clashes, authorities have implemented a near-total communications blackout. Internet services—including mobile data, SMS, broadband, and wireless—are suspended across four regional districts, including Bareilly, until 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 4. Home Secretary Gaurav Dayal issued the order specifically to curb the spread of rumors and communal tension via social media platforms like WhatsApp and YouTube.

In addition to the clampdown, security is drastically beefed up on the ground. Police, the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and the Rapid Action Force (RAF) have flooded the streets, and drones are being used for aerial surveillance. Bareilly has been divided into four special zones for force deployment, and SSP Bareilly, Anurag Arya, confirmed that religious leaders have been explicitly asked to ensure people return home immediately after the namaz.

Divisional Commissioner Bhupendra S Chaudhary issued a stern warning, stating that any "lapse will invite stern action" from administrative and police officials. A high alert has also been extended to the neighboring districts of Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun to prevent the disturbances from spreading.

The Source of Last Week’s Violence

The trouble began last week when cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan called for a massive demonstration supporting the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign. When approximately 2,000 people gathered, Raza abruptly called off the protest, claiming authorities hadn’t granted permission. The sudden cancellation triggered anger among the crowd, quickly escalating into stone-pelting and violent clashes with the police.

Ahead of this week's prayers, senior cleric Maulana Ahsan Razan Khan of the Ala Hazrat Dargah has appealed for calm, urging local Muslims to return home peacefully immediately after offering their prayers.