Sambhal violence: Police accuse SP MP Ziaur Rahman Barq of provocation
Sambhal police booked SP MP Ziaur Rahman Barq and Sohail Iqbal, son of SP MLA Iqbal Mehmood, for violence linked to a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. Authorities accused Barq of making provocative remarks that worsened the situation. The violence resulted in four deaths and injuries to 24 officials and several civilians. Police have arrested 25 individuals and registered seven FIRs.
Background and Investigation
The violence began after a local court ordered a survey of the mosque, following claims that it was built on a temple’s ruins demolished by Mughal emperor Babur in 1529. While the first survey occurred peacefully, the second triggered unrest. Officials stated that mobs from nearby areas attacked the survey team, throwing stones and setting vehicles ablaze.
District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya noted that the mob consisted of people from a 10-15 km radius. Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed that gunfire from country-made weapons caused the fatalities. Singh also revealed Barq’s prior statements, such as “Jama Masjid ki hifazat,” as incitement. Despite Barq being in Bengaluru during the violence, his name was added to the FIR due to earlier remarks.
Political Reactions
Opposition leaders blamed the BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government for the incident. Rahul Gandhi accused the administration of biased actions that escalated tensions. In contrast, BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj called the violence pre-planned.
Current Status
Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar reported six people, including Barq and Iqbal, were named in the FIR. Authorities continue to investigate the unrest, aiming to identify additional culprits and prevent further tensions.
The incident underscores the sensitivity of religious disputes in Uttar Pradesh, highlighting the need for careful administrative handling to avoid communal unrest.
