Did CM Yogi Adityanath Send a Warning to Rioters After Bareilly Violence?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Uttar Pradesh Government's Zero Tolerance Policy: Adityanath's firm stance against rioters.
- Significant Police Actions: Overnight raids leading to multiple arrests.
- Context of Violence: Linked to the 'I Love Muhammad' campaign protests.
- Future Implications: Ensuring law and order in the region.
- Community Response: Reflection on the balance between governance and public dissent.
New Delhi, Sep 27 (NationPress) Following the violent incidents in Bareilly during protests associated with the 'I Love Muhammad' initiative, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asserted on Saturday that his administration has sent a clear and powerful warning: disruptions to law and order will not be accepted.
At a 'Viksit UP' event hosted by a media organization, Adityanath stated, “In the past, festivities often led to disturbances, but now those who incite riots will face consequences in a manner they understand, ensuring their descendants remember it. Unfortunately, some negative behaviors persist and require corrective action. This was evident in Bareilly yesterday when a Maulana overlooked the current leadership.”
While he refrained from naming individuals, his comments seemed pointed towards cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan, the head of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, who was detained on Saturday under allegations of orchestrating the violence.
“He believed he could disrupt the system through threats, but we have made it clear there will be no roadblocks or curfews. A lesson has been imparted,” the Chief Minister continued.
Yogi also justified the application of bulldozers against individuals involved in criminal activities, stating, “Certain individuals incite tensions based on caste and exploit others… the bulldozer is designed for such offenders.”
Violence erupted in the Kotwali district of Bareilly on Friday as a large group displaying 'I Love Muhammad' banners gathered outside a mosque in response to the cancellation of a planned demonstration by Khan.
The police conducted late-night operations, arresting eight individuals, including Khan, while detaining over two dozen more. Authorities reported that more than 500 suspects were being identified through video surveillance and CCTV footage.
District Magistrate Avinash Singh mentioned that Section 163 of the BNSS, which mandates prior written consent for any march, was in effect. DIG Ajay Kumar Sahni labeled the violence as a “pre-planned conspiracy” and vowed that severe punishment would follow.
The UP Information Department characterized the incident as a conspiracy aimed at inciting unrest in western UP and undermining the Noida International Trade Show to dissuade foreign investment.