Bareilly, UP: Bareilly witnessed a tense situation following Friday prayers when a dispute erupted over the display of “I Love Muhammad” banners in the Civil Lines area. The disagreement quickly escalated into stone-pelting and violent clashes between groups. The police, led by Superintendent of Police (SP) Anurag Arya, an IPS officer of 2013 batch, resorted to lathi-charge to disperse the unruly crowd and restore peace.
Several people were detained in the aftermath, with the police recovering stones, slippers, and shoes scattered across a 200-metre stretch near the site of the clashes. At least ten policemen suffered injuries, including pellet wounds, and media personnel covering the incident were also hurt. Around twelve individuals were arrested immediately, with further detentions anticipated based on video evidence gathered by the police.
SP Anurag Arya: The Man Who Stepped Up
SP Anurag Arya’s swift intervention was pivotal in controlling the chaotic scene. Known for his proactive and no-nonsense approach, Mr Arya has earned a reputation as one of Uttar Pradesh’s most dynamic police officers. His firm handling of the situation in Bareilly has once again highlighted his leadership qualities.
But who is this officer, and how did he rise to such prominence?
From Village Boy to IPS Officer: The Inspiring Journey of Anurag Arya
Born on December 10, 1987, in Chhaprauli village, Baghpat district, Uttar Pradesh, Anurag Arya came from a family of doctors. His father, Anil Arya, was a general physician, and his mother, Sarita Arya, a gynecologist. Growing up in a village school, Mr Arya struggled with English and often felt overshadowed by children from urban areas. However, he embraced this challenge and vowed to overcome it.
In 2008, he joined the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, where he significantly improved his language skills and excelled in various sports, including horse riding and rafting. The academy instilled in him discipline and confidence.
Mr Arya later pursued a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics at Banaras Hindu University (BHU), showing an early passion for science. However, his academic journey hit a setback when he failed two subjects during his MSc at Hindu College, Delhi. Rather than surrender to failure, Arya viewed it as a fresh start.
Turning Point: From RBI Manager to IPS Officer
Before clearing the UPSC Civil Services exam, Mr Arya briefly worked as a Manager at the Reserve Bank of India in Kanpur. In 2013, determined to make a larger impact, he cleared the UPSC exam on his first attempt, securing the 163rd rank and joining the Indian Police Service.
He received his training at the National Police Academy (NPA) in Hyderabad and was posted in Ghaziabad. Over the years, he served in Amethi, Balrampur, Mau, and Pratapgarh. His aggressive crackdown on criminal elements, particularly the notorious Mukhtar Ansari gang, won him widespread acclaim.
Breaking the Stronghold of Mukhtar Ansari
During his posting in Mau (2019-2020), SP Arya took decisive action against illegal activities orchestrated by the Mukhtar Ansari gang. He enforced the Gangster Act against 26 members involved in illegal slaughterhouses and even bulldozed the home of one of Mukhtar’s key shooters, Anuj Kanaujia.
In 2020, Arya filed the first case against Mukhtar Ansari after a long hiatus since 2013, adopting a zero-tolerance policy against mafia activities that sent shockwaves through the criminal underworld.
Currently Serving as SSP Bareilly
Anurag Arya currently holds the post of Superintendent of Police (Intelligence) in Bareilly. He has been decorated multiple times for his service, including:
- DG’s Commendation Disc Silver (2020)
- DG’s Commendation Disc Gold (2022)
- DG’s Commendation Disc Platinum (2024)
- Chief Minister’s Police Medal (2024)
His story is one of perseverance and commitment – a true example of turning adversity into achievement.
Personal Life
IPS Arya’s wife, Vanika Arya, is also a PCS officer, reflecting a family deeply rooted in public service. Despite his rigorous professional life, Arya continues to inspire many young aspirants with his story of resilience and dedication.
Courage and Ability
The recent unrest in Bareilly brought attention once again to SP Anurag Arya, an officer known for his courage and ability to manage complex situations. His journey from a small village to a top IPS officer demonstrates that setbacks are not the end but a beginning.
