Bareilly Violence: Internet Shutdown, Flag March, SIT Formed As City On High Alert Over Tauqeer Raza

National News: Bareilly city turned tense after violence erupted post-Friday prayers. The trigger was an ‘I Love Mohammad’ slogan and protests soon turned aggressive. Police moved quickly to control the situation. FIRs were filed against multiple individuals for creating unrest. Sensitive areas saw immediate deployment of security forces. Senior officers personally monitored operations on the ground. Their swift action prevented the violence from spreading further.

Arrest Of Key Conspirator

Police arrested Maulana Tauqeer Raza, believed to be the mastermind behind the unrest. Officials said he had encouraged gatherings and provoked protests. His arrest led to tightened surveillance. Internet services were suspended to block rumor-mongering. Bareilly Police confirmed Raza was sent to judicial custody. Investigators are now closely tracking his role through digital and physical evidence. This arrest calmed down the escalating violence in Bareilly.

Internet Shutdown To Stop Rumors

As violence spread, authorities restricted internet access. Residents complained of slow or no connectivity across Bareilly. Police said this was necessary to block fake news. Officials explained that many messages circulated on WhatsApp and social media. To curb panic, services were deliberately reduced. The disruption was temporary but essential for restoring order. Bareilly remained under strict monitoring through both ground force and technology.

Weapons And Stones Recovered

Large amounts of stones and weapons were recovered from protest sites. Officials confirmed that mobs attacked police with stones and even gunfire. Twenty-two policemen were injured in these attacks. The recovery of arms indicated the violence was pre-planned. Police are probing suppliers of these weapons. This evidence has been added to the case files. Authorities confirmed more arrests would follow based on findings.

Social Media Used As Tool

Investigators found that social media was used heavily to mobilize people. WhatsApp chats, posts, and calls revealed a coordinated effort. Outsiders were also reportedly invited to join. A crowd of over 50,000 was the original plan. The police called it a deliberate attempt to create large-scale violence. Cyber units are now tracing digital footprints. Officials said more names would soon be exposed.

SIT Formed For Investigation

To dig deeper into the conspiracy, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed. The SIT is gathering all technical and ground evidence. CCTV footage is being examined minutely. Call records and social media campaigns are under review. Police assured a fair and thorough investigation. The SIT will submit its findings to the higher authorities. This step aims to ensure accountability at every level.

Administration Restores Order Quickly

Despite the scale of unrest, Bareilly administration restored order within hours. Heavy deployment and strict vigilance helped normalise conditions. Markets reopened after calm was restored. Police presence continues across sensitive zones. DIG Ajay Kumar Sahni confirmed that the situation is stable now. Authorities assured that strict punishment awaits all culprits. The government stressed that law and order will not be compromised.