Authorities in Uttar Pradesh have suspended internet services in Bareilly district for 48 hours, citing the risk of communal unrest during Dussehra and the upcoming Jumma Namaz. The move comes days after violence erupted on September 26 following a protest over an “I Love Mohammad” poster.
According to a notification issued by the state home department, mobile internet, broadband, and SMS services will remain suspended from 3:00 p.m. on October 2 until 3:00 p.m. on October 4. The order, passed under Section 7 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, and the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services Rules, 2017, aims to curb the misuse of social media platforms, such as Facebook, YouTube, and WhatsApp, for spreading rumors.
Divisional Commissioner Bhupendra S. Chaudhary has also issued a high alert across Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun districts. PAC, RAF, and local police forces have been deployed at Ramleela grounds, Durga Puja fairs, and Ravan Dahan venues to prevent any escalation.
Maulana Shahabuddin’s appeal: ‘Pray and go home’
In this tense backdrop, Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi Bareilvi, president of the All India Muslim Jamaat, issued a strong appeal to Muslims, urging them to steer clear of protests after Friday prayers.
He urged worshippers to return home immediately after offering Jumma ki Namaz and to avoid congregating in public places. “The violence that followed last Friday’s prayers was deeply regrettable. This week, people are advised to pray peacefully and head straight home. Do not respond to any calls for protests or demonstrations,” Razvi said.
Addressing mosque leaders, he cautioned imams against being drawn into political activity. “Some imams align themselves with politics, but they must reconsider this approach. In the present situation, their responsibility is to maintain peace within their mosques and guide young people not to be misled,” he emphasized.
Razvi further emphasized that love for the Prophet should be demonstrated through action, rather than confrontation. “Putting up posters and banners is only symbolic. True devotion lies in living by the Prophet’s teachings. He never chose conflict but sought resolution through dialogue and reconciliation,” he said, invoking the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah and the Constitution of Medina as historical examples of peaceful compromise.
