Tauqeer Raza Faces Chargesheet for Bareilly Violence

A chargesheet has been filed against cleric Tauqeer Raza and 37 others for their alleged involvement in the September 26 Bareilly violence related to 'I Love Muhammad' posters. Multiple cases were registered following the unrest, which involved violent mobs injuring police officers. Efforts to identify more accused are ongoing.

A chargesheet was filed against cleric Tauqeer Raza, the president of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, and 37 others, marking a significant development in the investigation into the violence that erupted in Bareilly over a poster dispute on September 26. The charges were officially submitted in a local court, as revealed by officials on Monday.

The Baradari police took decisive action against Raza, his associate Nafees, and others, while continuing the investigation of nine related cases implicating Raza. The violent incident allegedly stemmed from the controversial 'I Love Muhammad' posters, leading mobs to assault city police with petrol bombs, stones, and gunfire—resulting in injuries to over two dozen officers.

Senior Superintendent of Police Anurag Arya confirmed the arrests and said that investigations are being fast-tracked to bring all culprits to justice. He reassured that only the guilty would face consequences, emphasizing that innocent individuals will be protected. The chargesheet presented incriminating evidence against the 38 arrested suspects, with efforts underway to pinpoint additional suspects.

(With inputs from agencies.)