‘I love Muhammad’ row: Protest in Bareilly turns violent

**‘I Love Muhammad’ Row: Protest in Bareilly Turns Violent**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 27, 2025 | 11:53 am*

The “I Love Muhammad” movement, led by Maulana Tauqeer Raza, recently sparked clashes between police and locals in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. The unrest followed the cancellation of a planned demonstration due to a lack of official permission.

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### Unrest Erupts After Protest Postponement

The protest was initially scheduled to take place after Friday prayers, with gatherings planned near Maulana Raza’s residence and the Kotwali mosque. However, the demonstration was called off at the last minute.

Despite the postponement announcement, crowds holding “I Love Muhammad” posters gathered near the cleric’s residence and Kotwali mosque, escalating tensions. Protesters allegedly pelted stones at police officers attempting to disperse the crowd, prompting security personnel to respond with lathi charges. Videos from the scene showed violent clashes between locals and police in the Kotwali area.

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### Official Response and Control Measures

Senior officials, including DIG Ajay Kumar Sahni, SSP Anurag Arya, and District Magistrate Avinash Singh, arrived promptly to manage the situation. DM Singh assured the media, saying, “The situation is under control now. No untoward incident has been reported. We are appealing to people to maintain peace and harmony.”

Authorities have deployed heavy police forces at sensitive locations to prevent any further escalation of violence.

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### Maulana Raza Condemns Police Actions

In a video message, Maulana Tauqeer Raza refuted reports about the protest’s postponement, accusing the police and administration of conspiring against him.

He stated, “I will follow my earlier announcement. We will peacefully submit our memorandum to the President through the District Magistrate.” He called on people to join the movement responsibly, emphasizing the commitment to peaceful protest.

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### Unrest Spreads Nationwide

The controversy began on September 4 during a Barawafat procession in Kanpur, linked to Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi celebrations. An “I Love Muhammad” poster displayed on a tent along the procession route drew objections from local Hindu groups, igniting tensions.

Since then, the issue has spread beyond Uttar Pradesh to states like Uttarakhand and Karnataka, resulting in protests and police crackdowns in several locations.

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### Political Reactions

The ongoing controversy has drawn varied political responses. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticized the government’s reaction, questioning what is “anti-national” about expressing love. He highlighted a perceived double standard, comparing the disapproval of “I Love Muhammad” posters with the acceptance of “Happy Birthday” posters for political leaders.

Meanwhile, RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav accused the BJP of inciting violence over the issue. The BJP’s top leadership has reportedly instructed its members to avoid making unnecessary comments regarding the matter without prior permission.

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As the situation continues to evolve, authorities urge all involved to maintain peace and avoid provocations.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/india/i-love-muhammad-row-escalates-in-up-s-bareilly-24-detained/story

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