Undeclared Emergency in Uttar Pradesh: MP Iqra Choudhary Addresses Police Clashes in Bareilly

Kairana MP Iqra Choudhary claims an undeclared emergency exists in Uttar Pradesh after police clashes in Bareilly. She criticises restrictions on her visit to assess the situation.

Kairana MP Iqra Choudhary has claimed that an undeclared emergency is in effect in Uttar Pradesh. This statement came after she and other Samajwadi Party leaders were prevented from visiting Bareilly, a city recently affected by violence. The unrest began on September 26 when clashes erupted between police and protesters near a mosque in the Kotwali area.

A large group had gathered with "I Love Muhammad" posters following Friday prayers, despite police denying permission for a demonstration supporting the campaign. The resulting violence led to several injuries. On Saturday, Samajwadi Party leaders reported being stopped by police from entering the city.

Samajwadi Party Leaders' Response

Choudhary expressed her frustration, stating, "I am a resident of Uttar Pradesh and an elected representative from there. We heard about the incidents of violence in Bareilly and wanted to go there and talk to people -- to understand what their woes are, and how the government is treating them. But we were stopped." She emphasised that no law restricts their movement within the country.

The MP further criticised the lack of any written notice prohibiting entry into Bareilly, describing the situation as an undeclared emergency. She stated that the party leaders are determined to visit the city eventually. "We will not back down. We will go there. If not today, maybe tomorrow or in 10 days. We will go there and expose this government's agenda," Choudhary asserted.

Constitutional Rights and Government Criticism

Choudhary highlighted that "I Love Muhammad" conveys a message of love and peace, asserting her constitutional right to practice her religion freely. She vowed to hold the government accountable, saying, "We will expose this government and make sure it abides by the Constitution."

In response to the September 26 violence, police have filed 10 FIRs and charged hundreds of mostly unidentified individuals. Over 70 people have been arrested, including cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan, his aides, and some relatives.

With inputs from PTI