Stone-pelting erupts after Friday prayers, RAF Forces deployed
Bareilly, September 26, 2025 – Bareilly witnessed violent disturbances on Friday as hundreds of protesters clashed with police over the controversial “I Love Mohammad” campaign, forcing authorities to impose heavy security arrangements across the district.
The trouble began after Friday prayers when protesters carrying banners and raising slogans took to the streets, leading to stone-pelting and confrontations with security forces. Police were forced to resort to lathi charges to disperse the violent crowds. The situation escalated when Ittehad-e-Millat Council leader Nafees threatened a Station House Officer in a viral video for removing “I Love Mohammad” posters, further inflaming tensions in the communally sensitive district.
Multiple areas of Bareilly reported incidents of stone-pelting, with protesters demanding withdrawal of cases filed against Muslims in Kanpur. The district administration has identified several sensitive locations where additional security has been deployed to prevent further escalation.
Authorities have deployed 12 companies of Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Reserve Rifle Force (RRF) to restore order in Bareilly. Senior officials including the Inspector General, Superintendent of Police, and District Magistrate are personally monitoring the situation. Flag marches have been conducted in sensitive areas to reassure residents and deter potential troublemakers.
Prominent cleric Tauqeer Raza has been placed under house arrest as a preventive measure. The administration has also increased patrolling in mixed population areas and issued strict warnings against inflammatory speeches or social media posts.
The controversy originated in Kanpur during Barawafat celebrations when participants displayed “I Love Mohammad” signboards during religious processions. Kanpur police subsequently filed FIRs against 25 Muslims, including eight named individuals, for allegedly attempting to disturb communal harmony. This police action triggered widespread protests across Muslim communities, with the campaign now spreading to multiple states including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Telangana, and Maharashtra, creating a nationwide law and order challenge.
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