‘I Love Muhammad’ Row: Five-Day Planning Behind Violent Protest in Bareilly, NSA Likely Against Rioters

Violence erupted in Bareilly after Friday prayers in connection with the “I Love Muhammad” poster controversy, sparking panic across the city. The unrest, which originated in Kanpur, has now spread to Bareilly and Mau, raising serious law-and-order concerns.

According to police reports, the protest outside a small mosque adjoining the Islamia Ground quickly turned violent. The Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat—one of the holiest shrines for the Barelvi sect—also witnessed chaos as protesters clashed with security forces.

Police resorted to lathi charge and tear gas to disperse the crowd, but the situation escalated when protesters allegedly opened fire. Over 20 police personnel sustained injuries in the stone-pelting, while glass, footwear, and stones littered the streets after the clashes.

So far, 30 rioters have been arrested, and another 50 suspects are in custody for questioning.

Five Days of Planning Behind Violence

Investigations have revealed that the Bareilly protest was not spontaneous but meticulously planned over five days. Authorities believe that organizers used social media and local networks to mobilize crowds in defiance of Section 144, which prohibits gatherings.

Police sources confirmed that action under the National Security Act (NSA) will be initiated against the masterminds. CCTV footage, call detail records (CDRs), and other evidence are being examined to identify all those involved.

How the Unrest Began

The controversy started in Kanpur when posters bearing the slogan “I Love Muhammad” appeared, sparking debates and tensions. On Friday, hundreds of people gathered at Islamia Maidan in Bareilly with banners and posters, chanting slogans despite prohibitory orders.

Police attempted to disperse the crowd peacefully, but soon, the protesters retaliated with stone-pelting and firearms. The rioters reportedly used banners and sticks as weapons and shields while retreating into nearby lanes.

Role of Tauqeer Raza Under Scanner

Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, chief of Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC), has emerged as a key figure in the case. Police sources claim that Raza is the alleged mastermind behind the violence. He was reportedly staying at a friend’s residence before the clashes and has now been taken to an undisclosed location for questioning.

His mobile phone and those of his associates have been seized. If his role is proven, he could face an FIR under stringent charges.

In response, Raza released a video message blaming the administration for provoking violence and alleging a conspiracy against him.

Yogi Adityanath’s Stern Warning

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath held a high-level security review following the incidents in Bareilly and Mau. He directed officials to tighten security during upcoming festivals and warned rioters of strict action.

Quoting Ramayana symbolism, the CM said:
“Dussehra symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Now is the time for action against rioters. They will face such punishment that no one will dare to disrupt peace again.”

Currently, Bareilly is under heavy police deployment, with ODRAF (disaster response force) and armed police stationed at sensitive locations to ensure peace.

✅ Refinements made:

• Structured the article into clear sections (How it began, Role of Tauqeer Raza, NSA action, CM’s response).
• Removed repetition and tightened sentences for clarity.
• Added background + legal context (NSA, Section 144) for reader understanding.
• Strengthened the political and administrative angle to show seriousness.