Uttar Pradesh : Bulldozers roll over 400 encroachments in violence-hit Bareilly !

Administrative action was carried out in areas with a higher concentration of riot accused !

Bareilly (Uttar Pradesh) – Following the recent violence over the “I Love Muhammad” controversy, the administration has begun taking action. In the Sailani area of the city, the municipal authorities used bulldozers to demolish encroachments in front of nearly 400 shops along both sides of the main road. The drive mainly targeted areas where most of the riot accused reside.

The municipal campaign will continue in the coming days. After Sailani, preparations are underway to clear illegal structures in Biharipur, Killa, Swalenagar, Jagatpur, Azamnagar, Jakhira, and Chak Mahmood. Following the arrest of hardline Muslim leader Maulana Tauqeer Raza, who is accused of inciting Muslims, the police have intensified action against his close associates and others involved in the violence.

Encroachments obstructing traffic being removed – Clarification by Municipal Commissioner

Municipal Commissioner Sanjeev Kumar Maurya stated that temporary structures built in front of shops were obstructing traffic flow, which necessitated their removal. He clarified that this is part of the municipality’s routine campaign and has no connection with the recent violence. The drive, he added, will continue further.

Editorial Perspectives

• Was the administration asleep until these illegal encroachments mushroomed ? The officials responsible must also be held accountable !
• Despite such bulldozer drives, riots continue to occur in Uttar Pradesh; clearly showing that these actions alone are not enough. The Yogi Adityanath government must now take even stricter measures !