Security tightened in Bareilly with internet blackout and drone patrols before Friday prayers

The city of Bareilly in Uttar Pradesh has been placed on high alert ahead of Friday prayers and ongoing Dussehra festivities following last week’s violent clashes. Authorities have imposed strict security measures, suspended internet services, and deployed drones to maintain order and prevent the spread of rumours. Religious leaders and local officials have jointly appealed for peace as residents remain cautious amid visible tension.

The administration’s swift and coordinated response comes in the wake of communal unrest that broke out in the city’s Kotwali area on September 26, when clashes between police and residents led to injuries and multiple arrests. In light of the recent violence, officials are leaving no stone unturned to ensure safety and communal harmony during the festive weekend.

Internet shutdown and strict policing measures

The Uttar Pradesh Home Department has ordered a 48-hour suspension of all internet, SMS, broadband, and mobile data services across Bareilly district. The shutdown began at 3:00 pm on October 2 and will remain in effect until 3:00 pm on October 4, covering the crucial period of Jumma Namaaz and Dussehra celebrations.

According to Home Secretary Gaurav Dayal, the decision was made under Section 7 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules, 2017. The move aims to curb the circulation of misinformation and provocative content on platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and YouTube that could further inflame tensions.

The administration has implemented an extensive security plan across Bareilly and neighbouring districts such as Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun. Heavy deployment of Police, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and Rapid Action Force (RAF) has been ordered, with personnel patrolling sensitive areas and maintaining crowd control.

To ensure real-time monitoring, drones have been deployed over Ramleela grounds, Durga Puja fairs, and Ravan Dahan venues. The city has been strategically divided into four super zones and eight security zones, each overseen by senior officers. Additionally, four IPS officers from other districts have been brought in to assist in supervision and ground coordination.

District Magistrate Avinash Singh and Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Anurag Arya have been conducting continuous patrols and holding meetings with community leaders. They have urged citizens to stay calm, follow official advisories, and not fall prey to rumours.

“We are maintaining a strict vigil across all sensitive zones. Police are conducting foot patrols and route marches to ensure peace and security,” said DIG Bareilly AK Sahni, assuring that the situation was stable.

Religious leaders cancel processions and appeal for peace

In a significant move to prevent further escalation, clerics from Dargah Ala Hazrat, one of Bareilly’s most respected religious institutions, have cancelled all upcoming processions. Spokesperson Nasir Qureshi announced that the Gyarvi Sharif procession scheduled for October 4 has been called off, urging followers to offer prayers at home instead.

Mufti Ahsan Miyan, the Sajjadanashin (head priest) of Ala Hazrat Dargah, appealed to devotees to maintain peace and reject any attempt to disturb harmony. “Peace must be preserved at all costs. Rumours and provocations will only harm our community and the city,” he said.

The cleric also confirmed that the annual Julus-e-Gausia, a traditional ‘Urs’ procession, would not be held this year due to the current tension. Instead, a restricted religious programme involving prayers and langar (community meal) will take place at Sailani Raza Chowk.

Authorities and community representatives alike have welcomed these steps, viewing them as crucial to maintaining calm during the overlapping periods of Dussehra festivities and Friday prayers, which often draw large gatherings.

The heightened alert follows last week’s unrest, when nearly 2,000 people clashed with police after a protest linked to “I Love Muhammad” posters was cancelled. The violence led to stone-pelting, chaos, and injuries on both sides. Following the incident, police registered 10 FIRs and arrested 81 individuals, including Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC) leader Nafees Khan, his son Farman Khan, and cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan, along with several of their aides.

The authorities’ decision to deploy drones and enforce strict surveillance measures comes as part of their effort to prevent any repetition of such violence. Meanwhile, peace committees have been activated in all localities to encourage cooperation and dialogue among residents.

City reopens cautiously amid heavy security presence

Markets across Bareilly—such as Roadways Bazaar, Kutubkhana, Shivaji Marg, Alamgirganj, and Sarafa—have cautiously reopened after several days of closure. However, normal crowds were missing as shopkeepers remained vigilant and residents preferred to stay indoors. Many traders kept their shutters half open, ready to close quickly in case of unrest.

Police patrols and security forces were seen at every major intersection and marketplace, with drone cameras scanning from above. Despite the restrictions, residents appeared cooperative and were seen following the instructions issued by district officials.

ALSO READ: Economic crisis sparks unrest in Azad Kashmir against Pakistan government

ALSO READ: RSS completes 100 years of service and organisation

DIG Sahni said that ten PAC companies, several CRPF units, and local police teams were deployed to ensure peace. “The city is under control, and forces are maintaining constant foot patrols,” he stated.

The administration has continued to hold meetings with community elders, market associations, and religious figures to reassure citizens and promote mutual trust. Officials have also urged people not to share unverified social media posts or engage in activities that could spread panic.

As Bareilly continues to navigate through a tense festive period, the combined efforts of law enforcement agencies, community leaders, and local residents have so far prevented any major incident. The situation remains under close watch, with authorities hopeful that peace and normalcy will soon be fully restored.

In summary, Bareilly’s current security operation represents a coordinated effort between administration and citizens to prevent the recurrence of violence. With internet services suspended, drones in the sky, and peace appeals from all sides, the city is cautiously moving toward stability, emphasizing unity and restraint during this sensitive time.