India: Uttar Pradesh Detention Centre Proposal Sparks Concern Among Muslims; Bareilly Raids Heighten Anxiety

India: Uttar Pradesh Detention Centre Proposal Sparks Concern Among Muslims; Bareilly Raids Heighten Anxiety
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The Uttar Pradesh government’s proposal to build large detention centres and the intensification of police checks in Bareilly have raised concerns among local Muslims, with rights groups warning of potential harassment of citizens.

According to Clarion India, a model of a proposed detention centre in Lucknow, capable of holding 15,000 people, has been submitted to the state Home Department. The plan includes biometric entry systems, CCTV surveillance, three-tier security clearance, and deployment of 50 Central Security Force personnel. Men and women would be housed in separate sections within the same compound. Officials say the centres aim to manage foreign nationals residing illegally in the state.

Meanwhile, Bareilly authorities have increased inspections in slums and temporary settlements. District Magistrate Avinash Singh and SSP Anurag Arya visited University Road, questioning residents about identity documents. Teams of magistrates and police have been ordered to monitor hotels, eateries, and crowded areas.

Rights groups and local residents expressed fear that Indian Muslims could be inadvertently targeted. Activist Rehana Siddiqui told reporters that the lack of public consultation and secrecy is creating anxiety. Lawyer Arshad Warsi called for transparency regarding the criteria for detention.

Muslim leaders urged the government to clearly state that citizens will not be harassed. The Home Department continues to review the technical and security aspects of the Lucknow model, with plans for centres across all 17 Uttar Pradesh municipalities if approved.