Report: Islamic Cleric Detained in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, Leads to Stone Pelting Amid Gyanvapi Issue.

2 min read 2024-02-10, 04:25 PM IST

The implementation of tight security measures has been witnessed in Bareilly, with over 1000 police personnel deployed across the city. This deployment includes units from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF). The heightened security comes in response to calls from Maulana Taki Raza, the Chief of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, urging Muslims to gather for mass protests regarding the contentious issue of the distribution of the knowledge-based masks.

Maulana Taki Raza, a prominent cleric from the Raza Shrine of Bareilly, has objected to the allowance of prayers in one of the cells of the Janvapi mosque. He and his followers have been distributing and sharing social media posts, highlighting the historical significance of the potential conversion into a temple. This has prompted a response from law enforcement agencies, with police and intelligence units being placed on high alert.

Maulana Taki Raza had appealed to start incarcerating Muslims in Bareilly on the issue of knowledge-based masks, and discussions were initiated to address this matter. Currently, with us, we have Mr. Rahul Bhati, the SP City of Bareilly. Mr. Bhati, could you please elaborate on the security arrangements you have made?

Certainly, we have divided the entire city area into two zones and six sectors. Additionally, we have deployed forces at all intersecting points within the city and rural areas. All mosques where Friday prayers are to be held will have our force deployment, and as announced, no permission for any Islamic gatherings has been granted in Islamic Ground. Mr. Taki Raza has appealed to his people to gather at the Islamic College, but we’ve made it clear that no such activity is permitted there. Our appeal to the residents of Bareilly is to offer their Friday prayers in their respective mosques and refrain from gathering at Islamic Ground.

Has there been any communication with Maulana Taki Raza today? What is his program?

We haven’t had any dialogue with him. Our message to him is clear, and written permission for any activities in Islamic Ground has been denied. We’re simply asking people to offer their Friday prayers and return home.

How many forces are deployed in Bareilly today?

Approximately 1000, including forces from UP Police, sourced from other districts of Bareilly and four companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and one company of the Rapid Action Force (RAF). Thanks, that was Rahul Bhati, SP City of Bareilly, who stated categorically that no permission has been granted for any activity in Islamic Ground, and overall security has been heightened throughout the city.