Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh – October 2025: A significant revelation has emerged in connection with the recent communal violence that shook Bareilly. According to the official FIR, leaders of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC), including Nadeem—a key aide of party president Tauqeer Raza Khan—played a central role in provoking the crowd, leading to widespread violence and even a planned attack on the police force.
What Triggered the Violence?
The FIR states that on 26th September 2025, during Friday prayers, IMC chief Maulana Tauqeer Raza allegedly called upon the public to gather and raise anti-government and religious slogans. Despite prior warnings and police advisories, Raza reportedly released a video on social media urging people to assemble and protest.
In response, a large mob of 500 to 1,000 people from various localities gathered at Khalil Tiraha, raising provocative slogans such as “Gustakhi-e-Nabi ki ek hi saza, sar tan se juda” (Blasphemy against the Prophet deserves only one punishment — beheading). The crowd reportedly turned violent and vowed to fulfill their objective “even if it meant killing policemen.”
Mob Violence and Weapons Used
The FIR reveals that the mob was armed with sticks, sharp-edged weapons, bricks, stones, and even petrol bombs. Police forces deployed in anticipation of unrest faced lethal attacks, leading to several officers being injured.
Destruction of Public and Private Property
The rioters caused extensive damage to both government and private property. Key incidents included:
- Glass panels shattered and boundary walls of the GGIC auditorium broken.
- Several police vehicles and motorcycles vandalized.
- Anti-riot guns and wireless equipment snatched from police personnel.
The violence triggered panic among local residents, many of whom locked themselves indoors. Markets and shops were forced to shut down amid fears of escalation.
Arrests and Recoveries
Following the incident, police identified and arrested several key suspects, including Sarfaraz, Munifuddin, Azeem Ahmed, Mohammad Sharif, Mohammad Amir, Rehan, and others. Seized materials included:
- 253 bricks and stones
- Illegal weapons
- Sticks and lathis
- Broken police barricades
All recovered items were documented and taken into custody.
Police Response and Use of Force
The authorities reported that standard operating procedures were followed, in line with the Supreme Court and National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) guidelines. Tear gas shells and controlled baton charges were used to disperse the mob. Despite the intensity of the attack, the police successfully regained control and restored law and order.
Pre-Planned Conspiracy: Police Statement
According to the police, the Bareilly incident was not spontaneous but a pre-meditated conspiracy allegedly orchestrated by IMC leadership. The violence not only disrupted communal harmony but also caused serious injuries and financial losses to both civilians and police personnel.
Legal Action Underway
The arrested individuals are now facing charges under several provisions of the BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita), including Sections 109, 118, 121, 189, 191, 195, 196, 223, 310, and 324, as well as under the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act.
Disclaimer: This report is based on details available from the police FIR. Investigation is ongoing, and the final outcome will depend on the findings and judicial proceedings.