Over the last five days, Bareilly has witnessed a wave of unrest following a call for peaceful protest. What began as a demonstration reportedly turned violent after allegations of stone pelting—claims residents strongly deny. Protesters insist they had gathered peacefully after Friday prayers, only to be met with heavy police lathi charge. Eyewitnesses allege that even children were not spared.
For three consecutive days, internet services remained suspended in the city, and according to sources and reports more than 5,000 people have been booked under multiple FIRs. Families allege that thousands have been detained illegally, with police allegedly demanding lakhs of rupees for bail.
Locals narrate harrowing accounts of ordinary citizens being dragged from their shops and homes in broad daylight. Shopkeepers and daily wage workers say they now live in fear, unable to earn their livelihood. Many street vendors claim they have been ordered not to set up their carts, leaving families struggling to afford two meals a day.
The use of Section 144 has come under sharp criticism.Families of detainees say that even individuals standing alone have been detained under the provision. Families further allege that many detainees’ whereabouts remain unknown, while some of those in custody are being brutally beaten and tortured in jail.
In Sarai, a resident said his son had returned home after the protest but was arrested later from their house. “Now, police are demanding lakhs for his release,” the father alleged. Similarly, in Sailani, a family recounted how their son was dragged out by police while he was eating at home. Cases of FIRs being filed even against minors have raised questions about due process.
Meanwhile, the administration has sealed hundreds of shops, with reports of impending demolitions. Residents ask why poor traders and vendors are being punished when they had no role in the incident. “What is the fault of these poor people?” questioned a local.
Adding to the tension, Bareilly SSP reportedly assured members of the Hindu community that they could celebrate their festivals “without fear” under police protection. This statement sparked outrage among locals, who questioned: “Protection from whom? From their own Muslim brothers who are struggling for survival?”
Two young men, Sarfaraz and Farman, claimed they were picked up by police while on their way to work. Families across the city share similar stories, pointing to what they believe is targeted action against one community.
The question is- Are we even living in a democratic secular country , where even basic right to live and express is taken away and the seed of hatred towards a particular community is sown by the leaders of the country itself.
(This report reflects the observations and views of the author on the ground. FoEJ Media bears no responsibility for its content.)
