Bareilly Police Detain Cleric’s Associate Over ‘I Love Muhammad’ Protest Violence

Bareilly police on Monday detained Nadeem, a close associate of cleric and Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC) chief Tauqeer Raza Khan, in connection with recent violence during a protest in support of the ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign, officials said.

Bareilly Protest Detentions

Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya confirmed the detention, noting that the incident was premeditated, not spontaneous. Investigations revealed that Nadeem allegedly orchestrated the protest, contacting 55 individuals via WhatsApp who then mobilised a crowd of approximately 1,600 people. Authorities said the protest mirrored previous anti-CAA and NRC demonstrations, with minors reportedly placed at the forefront.

Officials stated that Nadeem and his associates were active at key locations, including Khalil School intersection and Shyamganj area, to incite participants. Police also alleged that Nadeem misled authorities about the demonstration, submitting a letter claiming that IMC supporters would pray peacefully in mosques after Friday prayers—a document later found to be forged.

On Friday, a large crowd carrying ‘I Love Muhammad’ posters clashed with police outside a mosque in the Kotwali area. The protest reportedly escalated after authorities denied permission for the demonstration called by Tauqeer Raza Khan.

Khan, along with seven co-accused, was arrested on Saturday, and a total of 39 individuals have been detained so far. Police have filed 10 FIRs against 180 named and 2,500 unidentified rioters under sections related to inciting violence, rioting, stone-pelting, and hurting religious sentiments.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath warned of strict action against anyone attempting to disturb law and order. Security has been intensified in Bareilly and neighbouring districts, with sensitive areas fortified under heavy police and paramilitary deployment.