Mon Nov 25 12:05:32 UTC 2024: **Four Dead in Uttar Pradesh Mosque Survey Violence; MP, MLA’s Son Named in FIRs**

Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh – Four people died and numerous others were injured in violent clashes on Sunday following a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. The violence erupted after protesters opposed the survey, which was conducted by a court-appointed Advocate Commission based on a petition alleging the mosque was built on the site of a demolished temple.

The clashes involved stone-throwing, arson, and gunfire. Police responded with tear gas, and several officers sustained injuries, including one with a gunshot wound. Videos circulating online show protesters throwing stones at police and alleged instances of police using force to disperse crowds.

Following the violence, seven FIRs were filed, naming six individuals, including Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq and the son of local MLA Iqbal Mehmood, Sohail Iqbal. They are accused of orchestrating the violence, mobilizing crowds, and inciting unrest. Police claim Barq’s comments urging the “protection of the Jama Masjid” exacerbated the situation.

The incident has sparked a bitter political blame game. Opposition parties, including the Samajwadi Party and Congress, accused the ruling BJP government of orchestrating the violence or turning a blind eye to it to deflect attention from other issues. The BJP countered, blaming the opposition INDIA alliance for fomenting unrest after their Lok Sabha election defeat.

The district administration responded by suspending mobile internet services, shutting down schools and colleges, imposing prohibitory orders, and banning the entry of outsiders into the area. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered, and those accused of violence may face charges under the National Security Act. The Advocate Commission completed the survey despite the violence.

While the police are investigating the cause of the four deaths, allegations of fatal gunshot wounds are being investigated. Twenty-one people, including two women, have been detained. The situation remains tense, with heightened security measures in place.

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