Maulana Tauqeer Raza, currently incarcerated in Fatehgarh Central Jail for his alleged role in the violent clashes in Bareilly on September 26, 2025, has been identified as a loan defaulter owing over Rs 28,000 to a cooperative society in Budaun, Uttar Pradesh. The debt, stemming from a modest Rs 5,055 loan taken before 1997 for purchasing fertilizer, has ballooned to Rs 28,346 due to accumulated interest over nearly three decades, according to officials.

Hridayesh Kumar Singh, secretary of the Sadhan Sahkari Samiti in Rasulpur Puthi village, stumbled upon Raza’s name while reviewing a list of loan defaulters. “I was shocked to find that the Tauqeer Raza listed as a defaulter is the same individual linked to the Bareilly violence,” Singh said. Despite repeated notices over the years, Raza failed to repay the loan, and the amount has continued to grow. Singh noted that Raza and his family sold their land and relocated from the village, complicating recovery efforts.

Budaun District Magistrate Avanish Rai confirmed the development on Saturday, October 11, 2025, stating that he was informed by Munnalal Mishra, the assistant registrar of cooperatives, about Raza’s outstanding debt. “A notice will be issued to Raza soon to recover the Rs 28,346 owed to the cooperative society,” Rai said, emphasizing that steps are being taken to ensure the repayment process moves forward swiftly.

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The loan controversy adds another layer to Raza’s legal troubles, which stem from his alleged involvement in the Bareilly violence. The unrest erupted after Friday prayers on September 26, when protesters, opposing FIRs filed against individuals displaying ‘I Love Muhammad’ posters, clashed with police. The demonstrators claimed they were denied permission to hold a peaceful protest in support of the campaign, leading to violent confrontations that left several people injured.

Authorities have since arrested 88 individuals, including Raza, with two additional arrests made on Wednesday. A total of 10 FIRs have been registered, naming 125 individuals and over 3,000 unidentified persons in connection with the violence.

The case has sparked significant controversy in Bareilly, with tensions remaining high as investigations continue. The cooperative society’s pursuit of the long-overdue loan highlights the intersection of Raza’s legal and financial troubles, drawing further attention to his actions both past and present. As authorities prepare to serve the recovery notice, the public awaits further developments in this multifaceted saga that has gripped the region.

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