In Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, the situation remains volatile after violent clashes erupted during a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in the Kot Garvi area. Four people were killed, and numerous others, including police personnel, sustained injuries. Tensions flared after a crowd gathered near the mosque on Sunday, protesting the survey and later clashing with security forces. Public and private property, including vehicles, were set ablaze.

CCTV footage of peaceful people who have gone to do their daily chores during Sambhal Violence, One can be even seen firing with a country-made gun pic.twitter.com/54fkD3HWFH

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Key Developments

• CCTV Evidence: A new CCTV grab shows a masked individual pointing a country-made firearm at police during the violence. Initial autopsy reports of the deceased indicate that they succumbed to bullet injuries from country-made guns, allegedly wielded by protesters.
• Government Response:
  • Posters of identified “stone pelters” will be displayed publicly, and recovery of damages will be sought from those involved.
  • The state government has announced strict action, reminiscent of measures taken during the anti-CAA protests in 2020.
  • Internet services remain suspended as a precautionary measure.
• Police Action:
  • 25 individuals have been arrested, with seven FIRs filed.
  • Prominent names in the FIRs include Samajwadi Party MP Zia-ur-Rehman Barq and Sohail Iqbal, son of a local MLA, among others.
  • Over 2,750 unidentified suspects have been booked.
• Restoring Order: Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi stated that the situation is under control. A magisterial probe has been initiated, and the administration promises strict consequences for the perpetrators.

Broader Implications

The Sambhal violence highlights ongoing tensions surrounding religious and political sensitivities in Uttar Pradesh. The use of public “naming and shaming” strategies by the government aims to deter similar incidents but also raises questions about its legality and ethical implications, as evidenced by the legal challenges to such actions during previous protests.

The situation is being closely monitored, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.