**Bareilly Violence: Police Detain Cleric’s Aide and Son Amidst Ongoing Investigation**
In the aftermath of the September 26 violence in Bareilly, police have taken significant action by arresting Dr. Nafees Khan, a close aide of cleric Maulana Tauqeer Raza, along with his son Farman. According to SSP Anurag Arya, a total of eight accused were apprehended on Wednesday, including two individuals from Shahjahanpur who were detained following an encounter. This brings the total number of arrests in connection with the case to 81.
Authorities stated that the arrests were primarily based on evidence gathered from CCTV footage and mobile videos, focusing on those suspected of gathering crowds or inciting unrest. However, some members of the community have expressed concerns that the crackdown appears to disproportionately target individuals associated with Muslim leaders.
Investigators allege that the timing of the Friday prayer on September 26 was deliberately changed following a video appeal by Maulana Tauqeer Raza. Officials believe this alteration encouraged larger crowds to assemble near the Islamia ground, contributing to the escalation of tensions.
During the unrest, police reported damage to shops and vehicles, and 22 policemen sustained injuries. Officers reportedly used batons and tear gas in efforts to control the situation. Community members, meanwhile, claim that many innocent bystanders were also caught up in the police sweep.
To date, ten FIRs have been registered across various police stations, naming 125 individuals and citing approximately 3,000 unidentified persons. Notably, seven FIRs mention Maulana Tauqeer Raza by name.
An SIT (Special Investigation Team) under SP City Manush Parik has been formed to conduct a thorough probe into the incident. The ongoing investigation aims to restore peace and bring those responsible to justice.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/bareilly-violence-maulana-tauqeer-razas-aide-dr-nafees-khan-his-son-farman-sent-to-jail-video
