Bareilly on high alert: Drones deployed, internet suspended for 48 hours
Security across four districts of Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly division has been beefed up ahead of Dussehra celebrations, with police, PAC, and RAF personnel deployed on the streets and drones monitoring the skies.
The state government has also ordered a 48-hour suspension of internet services in Bareilly, news agency PTI reported citing officials.
The high alert comes after a September 26 clash in Kotwali, leading to stone-pelting after a protest over the “I Love Muhammad” poster.
A notification from the home department stated that mobile internet, broadband, and SMS services in Bareilly will remain suspended from 3 pm on October 2 to 3 pm on October 4.
Home secretary Gaurav Dayal explained the move, saying, “There is a possibility of social media platforms, such as Facebook, YouTube and WhatsApp, and messaging services being misused to spread rumours and incite communal tension.”
“This step is being taken to maintain peace and public order,” Dayal added.
Divisional Commissioner Bhupendra S Chaudhary, meanwhile, issued a high alert for Bareilly, Shahjahanpur, Pilibhit, and Budaun districts. Police have been directed to remain vigilant at Ramlila grounds, Durga Puja fairs, and Ravan Dahan programmes, which attract large crowds, reported PTI.