On February 9, 2024, Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, the Chief of Ittehad-e-Millat Council, Bareilly Sharif, called for a ‘Jail Bharo’ movement. This call was in protest against offering prayers inside the Gyanvapi mosque in Varanasi. His words resonated with his followers, leading to a large crowd gathering on the streets of Bareilly. The police were quick to respond to the situation. They detained Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, which further escalated the tension. Despite a few isolated instances of vandalism, the police successfully managed the situation.
The ‘Jail Bharo’ movement is a peaceful protest where participants voluntarily get arrested to fill jails, demonstrating public sentiment and pressuring the government to address their concerns.
Ground Situation
Tension prevailed in Bareilly due to Gyanvapi, where a large crowd gathered following the cleric’s announcement. The cleric’s supporters circulated pamphlets and social media posts claiming that the Babri mosque was taken away by a court verdict and now the Gyanvapi mosque, which they say is 700 years old, is under threat.
The police sealed the Islamia Maidan, where the cleric had planned to hold the protest, and deployed the Pradeshik Armed Constabulary and Rapid Action Force to prevent any untoward incident. As per reports, at least one person was injured as stones were pelted in the Shamat Ganj area in Bareilly.
Accusations and Demands
Addressing a press conference, Tauqeer Raza launched a blistering attack on the BJP-led government at the Centre, particularly targeting Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami for the Haldwani violence over the demolition drive. He also invoked the Godhra incident, targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He accused organizations like VHP and Bajrang Dal of exploiting their proximity to the government and lamented the lack of control over them. Raza further claimed that the youth were seething with anger, ready to confront the government if necessary.
He also demanded the release of Mumbai-based Islamic preacher Mufti Salman Azhari, who was taken into custody for allegedly delivering “hate speech”. He urged for a cessation of bulldozer operations, calling for intervention from the Supreme Court.
Court’s Decision on Gyanvapi 
A few days ago, the Varanasi district court permitted the Hindu community to worship at “Vyas Ji Ka Tehkhana”, one of the eight underground chambers at the Gyanvapi complex. The court also instructed the district authorities to facilitate Puja inside the chamber following which the Puja started in the chamber on the next day.
The area was secured as the officials opened the chamber at night and made a barricaded path for the devotees. Varanasi DM S Rajalingam and Commissioner Ashok Mutha were at the Gyanvapi-Kashi Vishwanath Dham site. The DM stated that they were following the court’s order. On February 15, the Varanasi Court will consider a plea by Rakhi Singh, who requested the opening of the other ‘tehkhanas’ in the Gyanvapi mosque compound. Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) for Bareilly Zone, PC Meeni, said that measures have been taken to control the volatile situation.
Navigating Social Unrest
This detailed account provides a comprehensive view of the events that unfolded in Bareilly on February 9, 2024. It highlights the role of key individuals, the response of the police, and the reactions of the public. It also underscores the ongoing tension in the city and the challenges faced by the administration in maintaining peace and order.
If a segment of society chooses to disregard law and order in pursuit of their desires, especially while a legal case is still in progress, it can lead to complications. If a specific community believes they can protest against the law, it opens the door for the opposing party to consider similar actions. This could potentially escalate the situation, leading to more challenges for the protesting community itself. It’s a delicate balance that needs careful navigation.
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