The district administration has intensified its measures following the violent clashes that erupted in Sambhal on November 24 during a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era mosque. District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya announced on Thursday that posters featuring individuals involved in the violence would be displayed, excluding those already arrested.
Key Developments in Sambhal Violence
- Identified and Arrested:
- More than 400 individuals have been identified for their alleged involvement in the violence.
- 32 people have been arrested so far, confirmed Pensiya.
- Posters to Be Displayed:
- “We are finalizing the design of the posters, which will be put up shortly,” said the district magistrate.
- The posters aim to inform the public and assist authorities in apprehending the suspects.
- Casualties and Injuries:
- The violence led to the deaths of four individuals and injuries to multiple police personnel and locals.
The Trigger: ASI Survey of Mosque
The clashes began during an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) examination of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal. The survey was initiated after a petition in a local court claimed that the mosque was constructed on the site of a Harihar temple.
Political Repercussions
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, accompanied by Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi, attempted to visit Sambhal on Wednesday but was stopped at the Delhi-Uttar Pradesh Ghazipur border in Ghaziabad. This led to significant traffic congestion on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway.
- Rahul Gandhi criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for what he termed as unconstitutional restrictions.
- “As Leader of the Opposition, it is my constitutional duty to visit Sambhal. Why is the BJP afraid of the truth?” Gandhi posted on X, sharing a video of his interaction with the police.
Heavy Security and Peace Measures
To maintain order, heavy barricading was deployed by Uttar Pradesh Police. A peace committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday afternoon to address the aftermath of the violence and prevent further unrest.
Background of the Incident
The ASI survey and subsequent clashes underscore the tensions arising from historical and religious disputes in the region. The Sambhal violence is part of a broader pattern of communal unrest in India, highlighting the challenges of balancing cultural heritage with contemporary legal and societal frameworks.
This news report is curated with insights from multiple reliable news sources.
