Police in Bareilly district arrested 12 people for allegedly offering Namaz at an abandoned house without permission, officials said on Sunday.
The arrest was made after a video surfaced on social media purportedly showing people standing and praying inside the house.
Anshika Verma, SP (South) (Superintendent of Police), said that the action was taken as a precaution after locals at Mohammadganj village informed authorities that the vacant house was being used as a temporary madrassa.
“Conducting any new religious activity or gathering without permission is a violation of the law. Strict action will be taken if such activities are repeated,” Verma said.
Authorities said that the 12 detained persons were challaned under sections related to breach of peace and were later produced before a magistrate, who granted them bail.
Three are reportedly absconding and are being traced, according to police.
Authorities also said that the Vacant house belonged to one Hanif and was being temporarily used to offer Friday Namaz.
Police said that the detainees could not produce any valid documents or permission when questioned.
Villagers had reportedly objected to prayers being held in the house without permission.
Police have said that the video being circulated online has been taken as part of the investigation.