**Bareilly Violence: Police Arrest Dr. Nafees Khan and Son, Total Arrests Reach 81**
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.
Police officials stated that the arrests were made based on evidence obtained from CCTV footage and mobile videos. The focus has been on individuals who allegedly gathered to incite or inflame the crowd during the unrest. However, some sections of the community have expressed concerns, claiming that the action appears to disproportionately target those 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. Authorities believe this alteration encouraged larger crowds to assemble near Islamia Ground, which contributed to the escalation of tensions.
During the violence, several shops and vehicles were damaged. Police personnel used batons and tear gas to control the situation, resulting in injuries to 22 policemen. Community members, on the other hand, claim that many innocent bystanders were also detained in the subsequent police sweep.
So far, ten FIRs (First Information Reports) have been filed across different police stations. These FIRs name 125 individuals and list approximately 3,000 unidentified persons. Notably, seven of these FIRs mention Maulana Tauqeer Raza by name.
To ensure a thorough investigation, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed under the leadership of SP City Manush Parik. The SIT is tasked with probing the entire matter in detail.
Authorities continue to appeal for peace and cooperation as the investigation progresses.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/bareilly-violence-maulana-tauqeer-razas-aide-dr-nafees-khan-his-son-farman-sent-to-jail-video
