Following controversy about the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign, the Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday suspended internet services in Bareilly district for 48 hours as a measure to curb rumour-mongering and communal tension during Dussehra celebrations.
The suspension, which applies to mobile internet, broadband, and SMS, will be in force from 3 pm on October 2 till 3 pm on October 4, officials noted. Home Secretary Gaurav Dayal, in the order, cautioned that social media platforms including Facebook, WhatsApp and YouTube could be exploited to malign and create tensions.
“The step has been taken to maintain peace and public order,” the order stated. Security has also been tightened in four districts of Bareilly division, with heavy deployment of police, as well as Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel.
Drones have also been deployed to provide surveillance. The move comes after clashes on September 26, when almost 2,000 people clashed with police outside a mosque in Bareilly’s Kotwali area following Friday prayers.
The disturbances, which involved stone-pelting, were associated with the announcement of the cancellation of a protest against the actions surrounding the “I Love Muhammad” poster by cleric Tauqeer Khan.
A total of 62 people have been arrested in relation to the Bareilly unrest; among those arrested are Maulana Tauqeer Raza, Dr. Nafees, and Nadeem Khan, who are believed to have played a role in the violence.
The authorities have also seized property worth about Rs 150 crore that belonged to Tauqeer Raza and others. It has been stated that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is closely watching the developments and authorized strict action.
Police sources said, during questioning, former IMC district president Nadeem Khan disclosed Maulana Tauqeer Raza organized a congregation at Islamia Ground after Friday prayers, in order to show his strength.
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