Sat Nov 30 11:15:12 UTC 2024: ## Samajwadi Party Delegation Barred from Sambhal Amidst Post-Violence Tensions

**Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh –** A 15-member delegation from the Samajwadi Party (SP) was blocked from entering Sambhal district in Uttar Pradesh today, sparking a political firestorm. The delegation, led by UP state assembly LoP Mata Prasad Pandey, aimed to investigate recent violence at the Shahi Jama Masjid following a court-ordered survey on November 24th.

The Sambhal district administration imposed a ban on outsiders entering the district until December 10th, citing security concerns. This decision followed violent clashes between protesters and security forces, resulting in deaths and widespread damage.

SP chief Akhilesh Yadav vehemently criticized the BJP-led state government, accusing it of administrative failure and attempting to cover up its negligence. He demanded the suspension of the entire Sambhal administrative machinery and took to social media to condemn the ban, calling it a sign of governance failure. He also questioned the administration’s inaction prior to the violence.

Mata Prasad Pandey stated that he received only verbal requests to postpone the visit, not formal notices, and questioned the rationale behind preventing the delegation from entering when other groups, including the media, were permitted.

The SP delegation, which included several high-profile members and MP Ziaur Rahman Barq (who faces charges related to the violence), planned to meet with victims and compile a report. The party announced a Rs 5 lakh compensation for each family of those killed in the violence, while also calling on the UP government to provide Rs 25 lakh.

Amidst the escalating political tensions, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel announced the formation of a three-member judicial commission, headed by retired Allahabad High Court Justice Devendra Kumar Arora, to investigate the violence. The Congress party also plans to send its own delegation to Sambhal on December 2nd. The situation remains highly charged.

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