Bareilly Erupts in Violence: Protests Against Anti-Muslim Policies

Bareilly witnessed violent protests as thousands of supporters of Islamic cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan took to the streets in response to his call for jail bharo against perceived anti-Muslim policies. Protesters pelted stones, damaged vehicles, and clashed with police in several areas. The government has been accused of treating Muslims as enemies, sparking outrage among the protesters.

Bareilly, a town in Uttar Pradesh, India, experienced several incidents of violence on Friday, February 9, as thousands of supporters of Islamic cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan took to the streets in response to his call for "jail bharo" (fill the jails) in protest against what he perceived as anti-Muslim policies of the government.

Protests Turn Violent

The protests turned violent when demonstrators pelted stones in the bustling Shyamatganj market in the Baradari police station area, resulting in injuries to at least two individuals, according to police reports. In the Shehdana area, protesters targeted a motorcyclist and damaged several two-wheelers parked along the roadside.

Police Intervention

In both instances, police authorities employed mild force to disperse the protesters and restore order. Meanwhile, thousands of Khan's supporters congregated near the Islamia College ground in Biharipur under Kotwali police station, raising slogans and expressing their grievances.

Cleric's Criticism of Government Policies

Addressing reporters outside his residence after Friday prayers, Raza vehemently criticized the government's treatment of Muslims, stating, "The government is treating Muslims as an enemy. We are against the anti-Muslim policies of the government." He attempted to join the protesters on the streets but was prevented by the local administration.

Police Response and District Administration's Actions

Inspector General of Police of Bareilly Range, Rakesh Kumar Singh, provided an update to reporters, explaining that Maulana Tauqeer Raza had announced his intention to court arrest in protest against government policies. However, he was intercepted and peacefully persuaded to return home. Singh emphasized that the situation was under control, and adequate police personnel had been deployed in the area.

According to police sources, Khan had sought permission from the district administration on Thursday for his "jail bharo" call, but his request was denied due to concerns about law and order. Consequently, the district administration sealed the Islamia College ground, where Khan had instructed his supporters to gather.

FIRs Registered and Ongoing Investigation

District Magistrate Ravindra Kumar reported that some individuals engaged in stone-pelting at the Shyamatganj market, resulting in injuries to two persons. The administration is currently working to identify the perpetrators. Two FIRs (First Information Reports) have been registered in connection with the incidents, and efforts are underway to identify and hold those responsible accountable.

Background on Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan

Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, a prominent Barelvi cleric, serves as the head of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC), a political organization. He is a direct descendant of Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi, the founder of the Barelvi sect of Sunni Islam.