Internet & SMS Services Disabled in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly for 48 Hours Amid Protests

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Authorities in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, have temporarily disabled internet services and SMS facilities on Friday, amid fears of unrest as large gatherings are expected for Juma namaz. Additionally, heavy security forces have been deployed to deal with any unprecedented violence. The current tensions are a result of the demonstration led by Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan in September.

Why is the Tension Rising in Bareilly?

Tensions are escalating in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, after a violent clash related to a planned protest over the 'I Love Muhammad' campaign. The unrest began on 26 September when Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, a chief of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC), initially called for a demonstration, but later cancelled it. 

Despite the cancellation, the gathering became violent outside a mosque in the Kotwali area, leading to stone-pelting, property damage, and injuring 22 police personnel. Authorities regarded the incident as a "carefully hatched conspiracy," pointing to evidence of pre-planning and the misuse of social media to spread violence.

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Bareilly’s DIG AK Sahni said that “Law enforcement authorities had been engaging with people, urging them to conduct prayers peacefully. However, a group of agitators suddenly emerged, engaging in violent acts, including stone-pelting and firing. Video and photographic evidence of the incident were captured.”

What is the I Love Muhammad Controversy?

The ‘I Love Muhammad’ controversy initially began in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, in September 2025. The issue began after a banner was displayed during an Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi procession (Barawafat procession).  Members of the Hindu community opposed it as a "new tradition" and alleged that it was meant to provoke other religions.

The dispute escalated after police filed an FIR following arguments and alleged poster damage. This action sparked nationwide protests, clashes, and detentions, as many viewed it as an attack on religious freedom.

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Internet & SMS Services Temporarily Suspended

A 48-hour internet and SMS blackout has been implemented by the state government, which is effective from 2 October to 4 October. This measure is meant to control escalating tensions linked with a violent clash connected with the 'I Love Muhammad' campaign.

The suspension aims to prevent the spread of rumours and provocative content that could incite further violence through social media and messaging platforms.