Mon Nov 25 05:48:25 UTC 2024: ## Sambhal Survey Turns Violent: Three Dead, Internet Suspended

**Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh:** A survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, conducted on November 22nd, sparked widespread violence resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to several police officers. The survey, ordered by a court following a petition claiming the site was originally a Hindu temple, led to clashes between protestors and authorities.

The survey, which concluded on November 22nd, was conducted amidst heavy police presence. However, despite police presence, protestors engaged in stone-pelting, forcing law enforcement to use tear gas to control the situation. The resulting violence included arson and widespread demonstrations. Internet services have been suspended in the city, and schools have been ordered closed. The district administration plans to identify protestors using CCTV footage.

The Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP), Prashant Kumar, stated that the situation is under control and that the police are investigating the incidents and will take appropriate legal action against those involved. He attributed the violence to anti-social elements.

The incident has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi condemned the state government’s handling of the situation, expressing deep sorrow for those who lost loved ones and accusing the BJP government of insensitivity and biased actions that exacerbated the violence. Aazad Samaj Party’s Chandra Shekhar Azad also criticized the handling of the situation, calling it a failure of the police, administration, and government. Other opposition leaders, including Samajwadi Party’s Ram Gopal Yadav and Congress MP Imran Masood, also voiced their concerns and criticisms.

Post-mortem reports of two victims revealed they died from 315 bore gunshot wounds. A sharp weapon was also recovered from one suspect. The survey report will be submitted to the court after November 29th.

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