Sambhal Violence: Cases Filed Against Samajwadi Party MP and MLA’s Son; 7 FIRs Lodged

Violence erupted in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, following a court-ordered survey of the 16th-century Jama Masjid, leading to casualties, arrests, and widespread disruption in the city. The police have registered cases against Samajwadi Party MP Zia-ur-Rehman Barq and Sohail Iqbal, the son of local SP MLA Iqbal Mehmood, in connection with the clashes. The unrest, which began after a petition claimed a Harihar temple once stood at the mosque’s site, resulted in four deaths and injuries to many, including security personnel. At least 25 individuals have been arrested so far.

Opposition parties have strongly criticized the BJP-led state government. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the administration of deliberately inciting violence, while Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra alleged that the BJP was fostering Hindu-Muslim divisions for political gain. Despite tensions, Monday in Sambhal remained peaceful, with police conducting a peace march in affected areas. However, streets around the Shahi Jama Masjid were heavily patrolled, with most shops closed. Officials reported that traffic was normal, and some businesses had resumed operations.

The unrest began on November 19, when the survey of the mosque commenced. Violence broke out on Sunday as protesters gathered near the mosque, clashing with security forces, torching vehicles, and pelting stones. Three young men, all around 25 years old, died during the clashes, and another victim succumbed to injuries on Monday. In response, the district administration imposed prohibitory orders, restricted the entry of outsiders until November 30, and suspended internet services in the Sambhal tehsil. Schools were also closed on Monday, and a magisterial inquiry has been launched.

Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh stated that evidence linked MP Zia-ur-Rehman Barq to provocative actions, and legal proceedings under the BNS Act have been initiated against him. Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar reported that seven FIRs have been registered, naming Barq, MLA Sohail Iqbal, and identifying 2,750 other unnamed individuals.

Meanwhile, Opposition MPs in Delhi criticized the BJP during the opening of Parliament’s winter session, accusing the ruling party of stoking communal tensions. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) claimed the violence was instigated “at the behest of maulanas” and blamed leaders of Congress and the Samajwadi Party for making inflammatory remarks. District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya confirmed that some individuals involved in the violence had traveled from 10-15 kilometers away. As the situation unfolds, authorities remain vigilant with heightened security and ongoing investigations.

Team Profile

Aryan GulatiFreelance Journalist

Aryan Gulati is a dedicated media student based in Meerut with a wealth of experience in various newspapers and media houses. He has numerous published articles and specializes in political and crime news writing, demonstrating a strong commitment to impactful journalism.

Latest entries

• News23 February 2025Cyrus Broacha Defends Samay Raina and Ranveer Allahbadia in India’s Got Latent Controversy
• News23 February 2025Meerut’s 150-Year-Old Mosque Being Demolished for Delhi-Meerut RRTS Project
• News22 February 2025Punjab Minister Kuldeep Dhaliwal Managed a Non-Existent Department for 20 Months; BJP Responds
• News22 February 2025Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma Receives Death Threat; Call Linked to Dausa Jail