SP team barred from city; accused's hall demolished

Authorities in Bareilly Saturday razed the banquet hall owned by a man arrested in connection with the recent violence in the city, while police stopped a delegation of Samajwadi Party leaders from visiting the city.

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The Bareilly Development Authority (BDA) said the portion of ‘Raza Palace’ that was demolished was built in violation of norms. The banquet hall was owned by Dr Nafees, who is also considered to be a close aide of cleric Tauzeer Raza Khan, and has already been arrested and sent to jail in connection with the recent clashes linked to the ‘I love Muhammad’ campaign.

Officials asserted the demolitions were carried out as per procedure and no individual was targeted.

Alleged encroachments by 15 shops in the Sailani area of the city were removed by the Bareilly municipal corporation on Saturday, its officials said.

Bareilly has been tense after protesters opposing FIRs over “[ Love Muhammad” posters clashed with police following Friday prayers, after they were not permitted to hold a demonstration. Several people were injured in the violence.