Nearly a year after communal violence broke out in Uttar Pradesh&rsquo;s Bahraich, leading to the death of a 22-year-old man, the district administration has recommended invoking the National Security Act (NSA) against eight accused who have been lodged in jail for the past year on charges of murder and rioting.
Officials confirmed that the District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police have endorsed the proposal to impose the NSA, and the matter has been forwarded to the state government for approval.
<h4 data-start="665" data-end="697">Background of the Clashes</h4>
The violence erupted on October 13 last year in the Maharajganj area of Bahraich. The incident began when some locals objected to loud music during a Durga idol procession. The disagreement quickly escalated into stone-pelting between two communities, followed by gunfire.
A local resident, Ram Gopal (22), sustained a bullet injury during the clashes and later died in hospital. His death triggered further unrest, with rioters setting fire to houses, shops, and business establishments. The situation spiraled into a confrontation with police forces, and it took more than a month of heavy security deployment for peace to return to the district.
<h4 data-start="1353" data-end="1382">Action Against Accused</h4>
The eight accused named in the fresh NSA recommendation are Maroof Ali, Nankau, Mohammad Fahim, Mohammad Afzal, Mohammad Zeeshan, Javed, Shoeb Khan and Saif Ali. Earlier, in March this year, the government had already approved the imposition of the NSA on five other accused in the same case.
Police also confirmed that rioters from the other community had been booked for arson, including torching shops and properties. Several of them were arrested and remain in custody.
<h4 data-start="1863" data-end="1884">Current Status</h4>
With the fresh recommendation, a total of 13 people linked to last year&rsquo;s violence could now face charges under the stringent National Security Act. The administration has stated that such measures are necessary to prevent further unrest and maintain communal harmony in the region.

Bahraich Clashes: NSA Action Recommended Against 8

UP administration seeks NSA against 8 accused in 2023 Bahraich riots that left one dead

Bahraich Clashes: NSA Action Recommended Against 8

UP administration seeks NSA against 8 accused in 2023 Bahraich riots that left one dead

October 4, 2025 | 01:18 IST