Tensions ran high in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh on Friday, September 26, 2025, as violent clashes broke out between protesters and police following a demonstration organized in support of the controversial ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign. The protest, initially called off by Maulana Tauqeer Raza, sparked chaos as frustrated demonstrators clashed with law enforcement, leaving the local population in panic and triggering a heavy security response.

Protest Erupts After Last-Minute Cancellation

The unrest began after Maulana Tauqeer Raza, a prominent cleric and head of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, announced the cancellation of the protest just hours before it was scheduled to take place. The protest was meant to express solidarity with the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign, a movement advocating respect for the Prophet Muhammad. However, after the local authorities denied permission for the demonstration, Raza’s announcement came too late, and many protesters, angered by the last-minute cancellation, decided to go ahead with their plans.

Following the call to protest, dozens of demonstrators gathered near Raza’s residence and nearby mosques, holding banners reading ‘I Love Muhammad’. Despite the authorities’ efforts to disband the crowd peacefully, the situation quickly spiraled out of control.

Stone Pelting and Police Lathi Charge

As police began their efforts to disperse the protesters, some demonstrators began throwing stones at the officers, escalating the situation. Vandalism broke out as vehicles were damaged near Khalil Higher Secondary School, further fueling the tense environment. In response, police resorted to using force, carrying out a lathi charge (baton charge) to regain control and disperse the angry crowd.

The clashes continued throughout the day, with multiple scenes of violence unfolding in various parts of the city. According to witnesses, the unrest was sparked by a group of agitators who appeared to be organized and prepared for a confrontation, complicating efforts to calm the situation.

Maulana Tauqeer Raza Under House Arrest

In an effort to quell the violence, authorities placed Maulana Tauqeer Raza under house arrest ahead of the protests. As a prominent religious figure and the direct descendant of Ahmed Raza Khan, the founder of the Barelvi sect of Sunni Islam, Raza holds considerable influence in the region. His actions in organizing and calling for the protest raised concerns about potential violence, and the authorities moved swiftly to prevent any further escalation.

Authorities Respond to the Clashes

According to Bareilly District Magistrate Avinash Singh, the police had made it clear to the organizers that any public demonstrations would require written permission. Despite this, the protest continued, and authorities were forced to take strict action. Singh emphasized that Section 163 of the BNSS, a law that grants authorities the power to issue orders in case of anticipated danger, was in effect across the district, and police responded to the unlawful assembly accordingly.

“The situation is completely under control. I request everyone not to pay attention to any rumours,” Singh said during a press briefing.

Evidence of Premeditated Conspiracy, Say Officials

In an official statement, Bareilly’s DIG (Deputy Inspector General) AK Sahni confirmed that several videos and photographs taken during the protests clearly indicate that the violence was not spontaneous. “Our investigation points to a premeditated conspiracy, as a large group of people arrived at various locations, seemingly prepared for confrontation,” Sahni noted.

Sahni also explained that while the Friday prayers across Bareilly were conducted peacefully, a group of miscreants aimed to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere. “These individuals engaged in violent acts, including stone-pelting and firing, leading to the injury of more than 10 police officers. The initial evidence suggests that the violence was planned in advance,” Sahni added.

Local Impact and Concerns

The violence has left many locals shaken, with residents describing the atmosphere as chaotic and tense. As the clashes continued into the afternoon, businesses in the area closed their doors, and residents took shelter in their homes, concerned about further unrest. Local traffic was also heavily disrupted, with roads blocked and public transport suspended in some areas.

For the people of Bareilly, this unrest is a stark reminder of the fragile balance between religious expression and public order. As the authorities continue their investigation, many in the city are calling for greater dialogue and mutual respect among communities to prevent future outbreaks of violence.

Conclusion: A Call for Peace and Order

The violence in Bareilly is a disheartening turn of events that underscores the challenges of maintaining public order in a city with a rich religious and cultural diversity. While the police have brought the situation under control, the root causes of the unrest—whether it’s the provocative nature of the protests, the last-minute cancellation, or the involvement of outside agitators—remain subjects of concern. The authorities must work not only to address the immediate aftermath but also to ensure that such incidents do not escalate further.

As Bareilly moves forward, the need for peaceful coexistence and effective communication between different community leaders becomes even more crucial. The authorities are urged to maintain a delicate balance between protecting freedom of expression and preserving law and order. Only then can the region avoid such violent outbursts and ensure a future based on mutual respect and understanding.