Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has suspended internet services in Bareilly for 48 hours as part of security measures during Dussehra. The decision, effective from 3 PM on October 2 until 3 PM on October 4, follows recent communal tensions in the region and is aimed at preventing unrest during the festival.
Police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) personnel conducted flag marches across districts, supported by drone surveillance and rapid deployment forces. Superintendent of Police (South) Bareilly, Anshika Verma, said the steps were taken to ensure women’s safety and to maintain peace during the festivities.
The Home Department notification, issued under the Indian Telegraph Act and telecom suspension rules, specifies that all telecom services in Bareilly district will remain blocked during the period. Additional personnel from the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and PAC have also been stationed in sensitive areas.
The move comes a week after violence erupted in Bareilly on September 26, when an Islamic cleric announced a sit-in protest over derogatory remarks against the Prophet reported in different parts of Uttar Pradesh. The unrest was further heightened by controversy surrounding “I Love Muhammad” posters displayed during Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi processions in Kanpur, which drew objections from right-wing groups. Cases were registered against 24 people in connection with the Kanpur incident.
Authorities said the suspension of internet services is a preventive step to stop the spread of misinformation and provocative content during the festive period. Police have appealed to residents to cooperate and avoid spreading rumors that could disrupt peace.
