Police in Uttar Pradesh’s Bareilly district detained 12 people after they were found offering namaz in a vacant house in Mohammadganj village without official permission. The action followed complaints from local villagers who objected to regular prayer gatherings at the house, alleging it was being used as a temporary madrasa.
According to police, a video showing the prayers inside the house surfaced on social media and was taken into consideration during the inquiry. SP (South) Anshika Verma said that holding new religious gatherings without permission violates the law and warned of strict action if such activities are repeated, while urging residents to maintain peace.
Preliminary investigation revealed that the house belongs to a person named Hanif and was being used temporarily for Friday prayers. Authorities said no written permission or valid documents were produced when requested. The 12 detained individuals were booked under sections related to breach of peace, later presented before a magistrate, and granted bail. Police are searching for three other individuals allegedly involved who are currently absconding.
Officials said the intervention was precautionary in nature to prevent any potential law-and-order issues in the area.