Mon Nov 25 11:14:52 UTC 2024: ## Sambhal Violence: Four Dead, Internet Suspended, Tensions Rise After Mosque Incident

**Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh:** Tensions remain high in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, following violent clashes that resulted in the deaths of four people. Post-mortem reports confirmed all four victims died from gunshot wounds inflicted by country-made pistols, according to Muradabad Commissioner Anjaney Kumar.

The violence initially subsided, but reignited after a press conference given by Shahi Jama Masjid’s Sadar Jafar Ali. Ali alleged that police forcibly removed water from the mosque’s reservoir, leading to a crowd gathering and subsequent clashes with police. He claimed the police officer used abusive language, resorted to lathi-charge and threatened those questioning him. Following the press conference, Ali was taken into police custody, further escalating tensions. Additional security forces and armored vehicles have been deployed.

Earlier, police filed FIRs against Samajwadi Party MP, Ziaur Rahman Bark, and the son of MLA Nawab Iqbal Mahmood, Suhail Iqbal, accusing them of inciting the violence. MP Bark claimed the violence was pre-planned and part of a larger campaign targeting Muslims nationwide.

Police have registered seven FIRs related to the violence, naming six individuals and over 2,500 unidentified suspects. 25 arrests have been made so far. The four deceased were buried late on the night of the incident following post-mortem examinations.

Internet services in Sambhal tehsil remain suspended for another day, and schools are closed. District Magistrate Rajendra Pansiya has imposed a ban on the entry of outsiders into Sambhal district until December 1st. Police have also released footage of those involved in the violence.

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