Arbitrary arrests and illegal raids on Muslim households still continue, claim community members
BAREILLY – The Muslims community in Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh claims that police authorities are unilaterally targeting its youth arresting dozens of them in the aftermath of the violence that rocked the city on Friday.
The police high-handedness was clearly evident when the law enforcement machinery used brute force to disperse a peaceful demonstration against crackdown on ‘I Love Muhammad’ posters in Kanpur earlier in the week.
Arbitrary arrests and illegal raids on Muslim households still continue, community members allege.
On Sunday, police arrested 15 persons, adding to 12 arrests made on Saturday, bringing the total number of accused in custody to 27. Bareilly City Superintendent of Police, Manush Pareekh, said, “Some individuals created a ruckus after Friday prayers, leading to vandalism and stone pelting. We have registered 10 FIRs so far and are identifying and arresting the accused.”
Police claim that during searches and arrests, they recovered items including pieces of brick and stone stored in plastic bags, five pairs of old slippers, a live 12-bore cartridge, a live 13-bore cartridge in a shell, and a 315-bore pistol. Authorities said these items were allegedly used in the rioting.
SP Pareekh added, “All cases are related to urban areas. We have formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to thoroughly examine the matter, connect the evidence, and determine the sequence of events to ensure further action.”
To prevent further incidents, Deputy Inspector General Ajay Sahni conducted a flag march with police and PAC personnel in sensitive areas. Addressing the public, he stated, “Law and order is under complete control. Our teams are fully prepared to respond to any situation. We urge everyone to remain calm and avoid rumours.”
Muslim residents have expressed concerns about being unfairly targeted. Community member Salim Ahmed said, “We condemn violence in any form, but it feels like our community is being blamed without evidence. We want peace and justice.” Another resident, Farida Begum, added, “Muslims in Bareilly have always lived peacefully. We appeal to authorities to ensure investigations are fair and unbiased.”
The controversy began with a call to display “I Love Muhammad” posters, which sparked protests and clashes between police and demonstrators. The situation escalated into violence, with stone-pelting and vandalism reported in several areas. Maulana Tauqeer Raza, a local cleric, was detained for his alleged role in inciting the violence.
The cleric has been sent to 14-day judicial custody. The authorities have assured the public that investigations will be impartial, and no laxity will be tolerated in maintaining security.
