Yogi in UP: Year after communal violence in Bahraich, NSA invoked against eight accused.

Eight Muslim Rioters Slapped With NSA For Communal Riots In Bahraich Last Year.

Upendra Bharti | HENB | Lucnow | Oct 4, 2025:: Bahraich District Magistrate Akshay Tripathi has invoked the stringent National Security Act against eight accused lodged in jail in connection with communal violence that erupted during the Durga idol immersion procession here last year. A formal notification of the district magistrate’s order, issued on September 30, was released by the police through a statement on Thursday.

According to the statement issued by Superintendent of Police Ram Nayan Singh, the communal riot that broke out in October 2024 resulted in the death of a Hindu youth.

Now NSA Against Eight

The eight accused against whom the National Security Act has been invoked are Maroof Ali, Nankau, Mohammad Fahim, Mohammad Afzal, Mohammad Zeeshan, Javed, Shoeb Khan and Saif Ali.

The action was taken based on reports from police officers and the recommendation of the Superintendent of Police, Bahraich, “with the objective of maintaining law and order, public peace, and public safety in the district,” the statement said.

Earlier, the government had approved the NSA against five other accused in the same case after the administration made a recommendation. Following the violence, police had also booked rioters from the other community for indulging in arson, and many of them were sent to jail.

Police officials confirmed that all the accused have been lodged in jail since the registration of cases and subsequent arrests last year.

The Incident

The violence on October 13, 2024, began with a dispute over playing music on a DJ system during a Durga idol immersion procession in the Maharajganj area of Mahsi sub-division. The communal clashes began when a dispute over music during the procession escalated into stone-pelting between two groups. Provocative anti-Hindu slogans were allegedly raised on loudspeakers from a mosque, igniting tensions. The situation further deteriorated with reports of arson, desecration of Hindu procession and religious symbols, and stone-pelting.

It resulted in widespread clashes, during which 22-year-old Ramgopal Mishra was shot dead and several others were injured. An unruly mob caused extensive damage, including setting fire to houses, shops, a hospital, motorcycles and cars.

Government’s Stance

The Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has maintained that it is determined to stop all attacks on Hindu religious festivals by Muslim mobs from a communal mindset. However, critics argue that this stance is being used to justify selective action against one community.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken a firm stance against violence and lawlessness during festivals like Durga Puja and Dussehra. He warned that anyone attempting to disrupt the peace or indulge in vandalism will face strict action. Here’s what we know about his directives:
– Strict Action Against Troublemakers: Yogi Adityanath has instructed the police to take swift action against anyone trying to disrupt the peace. He emphasized that the law will not differentiate between individuals, and strict action will be taken against those who indulge in violence or vandalism.
– Women’s Safety a Priority: The Chief Minister has prioritized women’s safety during the festivals. He has directed the police to increase vigilance and ensure that women are not harassed or intimidated.
– No Tolerance for Communal Tensions: Yogi Adityanath has made it clear that communal tensions will not be tolerated. He has instructed the police to take action against anyone trying to stir up trouble or spread hatred.
– Guidelines for Festivals: The Uttar Pradesh government has issued guidelines for the festivals, including restrictions on public gatherings and processions to maintain law and order.
– Accountability: The Chief Minister has emphasized that those responsible for violence or vandalism will be held accountable. He has instructed the police to identify and arrest those involved in such incidents.

Accusations of Bias

Rights activists and opposition leaders, including Samajwadi Party’s Anita Verma, have condemned the administration for allegedly shielding Hindu mobs while targeting Muslims under political pressure. Local activist Rashid Khan highlighted the disparity, noting that Hindu perpetrators of arson and mosque attacks face no NSA charges, eroding trust in the system.

The Way Forward

The Bahraich case underscores concerns over law enforcement, eroding divisions and mistrust. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the authorities will take steps to address the allegations of bias and ensure justice for all parties involved, promoting all religious festivities without hindrance.

Overall, Yogi Adityanath’s directives for the festive season and the recent imposition of NSA on the Bahraich culprits reflect the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order during festivals and ensuring the safety of all citizens in every situations.
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_Inputs from PTI and ANI.