Tension spreads in Bareilly over religious place demolition

A religious place was demolished allegedly during anti-encroachment drive by National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) triggering tension in Fareedpur town here today, police said here.

As the news of the incident spread, members of a community assembled at the spot and blocked the national highway. A shut-down was also observed.

Sub Divisional Magistrate Arun Kumar claimed that the situation was under control and all parties concerned were consulted before taking the step.

Kumar said that a section was still protesting and talks would be held with them soon.

To avoid possible backlash, police were deployed in strength in the area.