Mon Nov 25 09:35:14 UTC 2024: ## Four Dead After Mosque Survey Sparks Violent Clashes in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh
**Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh:** Violent clashes erupted in Sambhal, western Uttar Pradesh, following a court-ordered survey of a local mosque, resulting in the death of four people and injuries to at least 20 police officers. The death toll rose to four on Monday after a 19-year-old succumbed to gunshot wounds. Three others died on Sunday from bullet injuries sustained during the clashes, according to Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh.
The clashes began Sunday morning when a court-appointed team arrived at the Shahi Jama Masjid in Kot West to conduct a second survey. The survey was ordered after a priest claimed a temple previously stood on the site. The arrival of the team was met with stone-pelting and violence from multiple groups, escalating into gunfire. Police used pellet guns and tear gas to disperse the crowds, but the violence continued, including arson.
Fifteen people, including two women, have been detained, and police have launched a search operation to apprehend others involved. The Sambhal Superintendent of Police (SP) Krishna Kumar Bishnoi stated that the police only used pellet guns, while autopsy reports indicate the victims died from gunshot wounds from a .315 bore firearm.
The incident has sparked political outrage, with opposition parties criticizing the state government. The Congress and Samajwadi Party have accused the BJP government of orchestrating the violence. The UP Deputy Chief Minister, Brajesh Pathak, stated that a probe will be conducted and that those obstructing court orders will face action.
Authorities have imposed a 24-hour internet shutdown and prohibitory orders in the area, with schools also closed. While local officials have engaged with community leaders to maintain peace, fear remains palpable among residents. The investigation is ongoing.
First Piper 