Sambhal Violence: SP MP Among 400 Booked; Internet Suspended, Schools Shut
Violent clashes in Sambhal over a court-ordered survey of Shahi Jama Masjid claimed four lives and injured over 20 police personnel. SP MP Ziaur Rahman Barq among 400 people booked. Internet services suspended and schools shut as tensions rise.
Sambhal, UP: Four people lost their lives, and over 20 police personnel were injured, including a critically wounded constable, during violent clashes in Sambhal on Sunday. The unrest broke out amid a court-mandated survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid, which is at the center of a legal dispute claiming it was built over a Hindu temple.
Authorities have arrested 25 individuals and filed cases against 400 people in connection with the violence. Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Ziaur Rahman Barq and Nawab Suhail Iqbal, son of SP leader Iqbal Mahmood, are among those booked.
The violence escalated when a large crowd gathered near the mosque, pelting stones at police and setting multiple vehicles on fire. Law enforcement responded with tear gas and batons to disperse the mob. Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar alleged that Barq’s earlier statements exacerbated tensions, and drone footage is being analyzed to identify more individuals involved in the clashes.
Political Allegations Fly
MP Ziaur Rahman Barq dismissed the accusations, blaming the police for the violence and alleging that it was part of a "conspiracy" targeting Muslims. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav also defended Barq, accusing the government of orchestrating the incident to incite communal tensions.
"Our MP Zia ur Rahman was not even present in Sambhal during the incident, yet he has been named. This was clearly a riot instigated by the government," Mr. Yadav said, calling for accountability.
Preventive Measures Taken
In response to the violence, internet services in Sambhal have been suspended for 24 hours, and all schools up to Class 12 were closed on Monday. Authorities have also barred entry into the district for outsiders, social organizations, and public representatives without prior approval until November 30.
The survey, which triggered the violence, was originally conducted last Tuesday following a court order based on claims that the mosque stands on the site of a Harihar temple. Officials had rescheduled the survey for Sunday morning to avoid interference with regular prayers.
As tensions remain high, local authorities continue efforts to restore order while investigating the incident.
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