Arif’s market demolished last week; Farhat’s house under scrutiny over alleged illegal construction and sheltering charges
BAREILLY – Tension is simmering in this Uttar Pradesh city Bareilly following the “I Love Muhammad” poster controversy, with the Yogi Adityanath administration intensifying its action against individuals said to be close to Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC) chief and influential cleric Maulana Tauqeer Raza.
After the cleric’s arrest over the September 26 clashes, authorities have now demolished the market belonging to his associate Arif, and officials say further action may follow.
Violence broke out in Bareilly after a disagreement over an “I Love Muhammad” poster escalated into a confrontation between locals and the police. Following the clashes, cases were registered against hundreds of people. Police later arrested Maulana Tauqeer Raza, accusing him of incitement, and sent him to jail.
Last week, the Bareilly Development Authority (BDA) demolished the market and showroom owned by Arif, a close aide of the cleric. Officials said the action was carried out on grounds of illegal construction and unauthorised commercial activity.
Supporters of Maulana Raza, however, allege that the crackdown is politically motivated and meant to pressure those associated with him.
Attention has now shifted to Arif’s brother, Farhat, who, according to police, allowed Maulana Raza to stay in his home when the cleric was evading arrest after the violence. Police later detained Raza from the same location.
Following this allegation, authorities sealed Farhat’s house, claiming that it too was built without the required permissions. The property is located in Faik Enclave, a colony established by Arif in the Baradari police station area.
Officials say Faik Enclave is already under the scanner over suspected violations of the city’s master plan. Several buildings in the colony are believed to have been constructed either without approval or in breach of planning norms.
The administration maintains that its actions are part of a broad drive against illegal structures and riot-related conspiracies.
On the other hand, supporters of Maulana Tauqeer Raza insist that the bulldozer action is a form of political vendetta, aimed at punishing dissenting voices.
Although the situation in Bareilly remains sensitive, police say it is currently under control, with security heightened in key areas to prevent any further unrest.
