Bareilly division in Uttar Pradesh has been placed under a high-security alert with an increased police presence, including Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel, and the deployment of drones across its four districts. These extensive measures, implemented on Thursday, October 2, 2025, are in anticipation of the upcoming Dussehra festival.
This heightened vigilance follows a significant incident on September 26, when an estimated 2,000-strong gathering outside a mosque in the Kotwali area escalated into a confrontation with police, involving stone-pelting, after Friday prayers.
The unrest was initially sparked by the cancellation of a protest planned over the “I Love Muhammad” poster controversy, which had been called by cleric Tauqeer Khan. In response to these events, Divisional Commissioner Bhupendra S Chaudhary declared a high alert for Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun districts.
Authorities have specifically instructed police to maintain strict vigilance at Ramlila grounds, Durga Puja fairs, and Ravan Dahan programs, which traditionally attract large crowds. Tensions have also been reported to escalate in Barabanki and Mau districts following the Bareilly clashes.
Chaudhary emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “All district magistrates, deputy collectors, police, and administrative officials must discharge their responsibilities seriously. Any lapse will invite stern action.” Intelligence agencies have also been activated, with teams deployed across the region.
An official confirmed that armed police forces are being strategically positioned at sensitive locations to ensure that the disturbances recently observed in Bareilly do not spread to neighboring areas. As of Wednesday, 81 individuals had been arrested in connection with the violence that occurred on September 26.