Authorities in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, have ordered an internet shutdown following violent clashes between Muslim protesters and Hindu residents that erupted after Friday prayers.

The suspension covers both mobile and fixed services in several localities as law enforcement moves to restore order.

The unrest followed a protest called by Tauqeer Raza Khan, leader of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, in support of the “I Love Muhammad” campaign.

The demonstration escalated into stone-throwing and physical confrontations, prompting deployment of about 8,000 police personnel.

At least twenty-one officers were reported injured.

Police have arrested Khan and seven of his associates and detained dozens more, with First Information Reports being filed against around two thousand individuals.

Among the charges are incitement of religious hatred, unlawful assembly, attempts to cause grievous harm, and violation of public order.

The authorities assert that protesters mobilized via WhatsApp groups and social media pages across hundreds of mosques.

Officials argue the internet blackout is a necessary temporary measure to prevent further violence and misinformation while investigations proceed.

Local law enforcement has also said that recovered items include weapons and debris from the protest sites.

Critics warn that blanket service suspensions curb essential communication and impede ordinary life, but state authorities maintain that the suspension is proportional to maintain peace in a volatile environment.

Tensions in Bareilly are part of a broader pattern of communal flareups in Uttar Pradesh, underscoring deep religious fissures and challenges for local governance.

As of now, the region remains under tight security, and service restoration will await assessment of on-ground stability.