Tensions soared in Bareilly when a group of Muslims, led by Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC) chief Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan, held a protest march over Gyanvapi and Haldwani issues after congregational prayers on Friday.

After offering namaz (prayer) at the Ala Hazrat Masjid located near Islamia Maidan, Maulana Tauqeer Raza courted arrest as a protest only to be released immediately.

However, soon after the arrest, hundreds of his supporters sat on the road in support of the Maulana disrupting traffic. A huge crowd gathered at the barrier of Khalil School raised anti-government slogans.

Later, the protestors dispersed on an appeal by the Maulana. However, security in the entire area has been tightened in view of the prevalent tense situation.

Before the Friday prayers, Maulana Tauqeer Raza passed harsh remarks against the BJP governments at the Centre and in the state claiming that Muslims were forced to come out of their house.

He alleged that an atmosphere of hatred has been created in the country. “If anyone commits a crime, he should be arrested. The house, madrassa, and mosque have not committed any crime. Why then are these being bulldozed? We will oppose this. Now, bulldozers will not be tolerated,” the Maulana declared.

“We will protect ourselves. We have the legal right to kill anyone who attacks us,” he added.

He alleged that the courts are under pressure from the government. He held the police responsible for vitiating the atmosphere of the country. “The police, Bajrang Dal, and the Shiv Sena together want to destroy the country. Now, we are not going to tolerate this dishonesty,” he added.

He announced the launch of a nationwide movement, which would start from Bareilly and would be carried out throughout the country.

SP City Rahul Bhati complained that no permission was taken for the programme. “Everyone has a right to express his views in a constitutional manner. But if anyone tries to disturb peace by coming out on the streets, the police will deal with him strictly,” he said.