Amid extremely critical situations in the Bareilly division, security across the region has been significantly beefed up. According to reports by news agency PTI, there has been a heavy deployment of forces across the four districts of the Bareilly division, with police, PAC, and RAF personnel maintaining vigilant patrols on the streets.
Officials have confirmed that drones were also deployed on Thursday to enhance aerial surveillance, especially in view of the upcoming Dussehra celebrations. This strong security setup aims to safeguard the region from any situations that might escalate into violent protests.
The unrest began on September 26, when a gathering of around 2,000 people outside a mosque in the Kotwali area after Friday prayers led to a confrontation with the police, including incidents of stone-pelting. In response, the police conducted overnight raids on September 27, made several arrests, and increased their deployment to control the situation. Authorities have also been monitoring social media closely to curb any attempts to disturb communal harmony.
The violence was reportedly triggered by the cancellation of a protest over the ‘I Love Muhammad’ poster controversy, which was called by cleric Tauqeer Khan.
Divisional Commissioner Bhupendra S. Chaudhary has issued a high alert for the districts of Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun, as confirmed by PTI. Police have been instructed to remain especially vigilant at major public gatherings such as Ramlila grounds, Durga Puja fairs, and Ravan Dahan programs, all of which attract large crowds.
Bhupendra S. Chaudhary emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “All district magistrates, deputy collectors, police, and administrative officials must discharge their responsibilities seriously. Any lapse will invite stern action,” as cited by PTI.
Intelligence agencies have also been put on high alert, with teams deployed in the field to monitor developments closely. Officials highlighted that armed police forces are being strategically positioned at sensitive locations to ensure foolproof security arrangements. Their goal is to prevent the disturbances witnessed in Bareilly from spilling over into neighboring districts, according to a statement reported by news agency ANI.
As of Wednesday, 81 people had been arrested in connection with the September 26 violence. Following the clashes in Bareilly, tensions have also escalated in Faizullaganj village in Barabanki district.
(With inputs from PTI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/i-love-mohammed-row-high-alert-in-bareilly-division-drones-deployed-23596849
