By: Bharat Daily Samachar Date: 1 October,2025

In a major development following recent unrest in Bareilly, authorities have identified eight allegedly illegal properties connected to associates of cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan. The crackdown comes in the aftermath of violent clashes sparked by the controversial ‘I Love Muhammad’ campaign, which saw police personnel injured and public order disrupted.

Background of the Controversy

The incident traces back to a protest that was to be held over the distribution of posters bearing the phrase “I Love Muhammad.” Tauqeer Raza Khan, the chief of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council (IMC), had called for demonstrations, but the situation quickly escalated. More than 2,000 people gathered near a mosque in Bareilly, resulting in clashes with law enforcement officers. Stone-pelting and aggressive confrontations led to multiple injuries and forced authorities to intervene decisively.

Following the unrest, Tauqeer Raza Khan and several of his close aides were taken into custody. They were placed under judicial detention while investigations into the events continued.

Discovery of Illegal Properties

After the clashes, joint teams from the Bareilly Development Authority (BDA) and the local district administration conducted a thorough inspection of properties connected to Khan’s associates. Their investigation revealed eight structures that were built illegally, many on government or ceiling land without proper approvals or permits.

Officials confirmed that these properties included hotels, banquet halls, and other establishments run by close associates of Tauqeer Raza Khan, such as Mohammad Arif and Farhat. Among the most prominent properties under scrutiny are Skylark Hotel, Fahm Lawn, and Flora Garden. Some shops constructed atop the Pahalwan Sahab Dargah area were also flagged for unauthorized construction.

Legal Action and Demolition Plans

Authorities have emphasized that these illegal structures will face strict action. The BDA has sealed several properties pending demolition, and FIRs are being prepared against those responsible for the encroachments. Mohammad Arif, in particular, faces legal action for occupying government land and violating building regulations.

Dr. Manikandan A, Vice-Chairman of the BDA, stated that the enforcement is part of a broader initiative to maintain compliance with urban development laws. “No individual or group is above the law. Illegal construction on government land will not be tolerated,” he said.

Wider Implications

The identification of these properties has brought renewed focus to the broader issue of illegal constructions in urban India. Rapid urbanization and weak enforcement have often led to unauthorized buildings and encroachments, which pose both safety and legal risks.

In this case, the illeg al properties are also linked to a network accused of inciting unrest and mobilizing crowds for politically and religiously sensitive campaigns. By targeting these properties, authorities aim not only to enforce urban planning rules but also to curb illegal activities that threaten law and order.

Public and Political Reactions

News of the crackdown has drawn reactions across political and social circles. Many citizens have lauded the administration for taking decisive action against illegal encroachments, while activists and opposition leaders have emphasized the need for consistent monitoring of such activities.

Social media platforms have seen widespread discussion, with users highlighting both the danger of illegal constructions and the potential for misuse of such spaces in promoting unrest. Hashtags related to Bareilly and Tauqeer Raza Khan trended briefly as people expressed concern and demanded accountability.

Protecting Urban Spaces

Urban planners and legal experts argue that incidents like these underscore the urgent need for stricter enforcement of building codes and land-use regulations. Illegal properties not only violate the law but also pose risks to residents, workers, and public safety. Authorities hope that taking action in this high-profile case will serve as a warning to others who might attempt similar violations.

Moving Forward

The next steps involve the preparation of demolition plans, close monitoring of all related properties, and continuation of legal proceedings against the owners and operators of the illegal structures. Officials have promised transparency and diligence throughout the process, emphasizing that no shortcuts will be taken.

For the public, this development reinforces the importance of rule of law and accountability in urban development projects. It also highlights how illegal activities, if left unchecked, can contribute to social unrest and public safety concerns.

Conclusion

The identification of eight illegal properties tied to Tauqeer Raza Khan’s associates marks a decisive moment for Bareilly authorities. By enforcing demolition orders and pursuing legal action, the administration is sending a clear message: illegal construction and activities that threaten peace and law enforcement will not be tolerated.

This episode also serves as a reminder of the importance of strict urban planning regulations, the need for vigilance in monitoring construction, and the critical role of authorities in protecting citizens and maintaining public order. As demolition and legal processes move forward, the eyes of the nation remain on Bareilly, watching how justice and accountability are implemented in a high-profile case.