Sambhal Violence: Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Set to Visit Despite Entry Restrictions
Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh: Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi, along with other party MPs, are planning to visit Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday following violent clashes that led to the deaths of four individuals. This visit comes despite a district-wide entry ban for outsiders, which was imposed by the local administration after the violence erupted over the survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. The controversial survey, which followed a petition claiming that the mosque was built on the site of a former Harihar temple, has left the area tense.
Entry Ban and Restrictions
The Sambhal administration had placed a restriction on outsiders entering the district until December 10, following the violence that broke out after the mosque survey. District Magistrate Rajendra Pensiya issued a request to neighboring districts, including Bulandshahr, Amroha, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar, urging authorities to prevent Rahul Gandhi’s entry by stopping him at the district borders.
Pensiya explained that the violence, triggered by the November 24 survey, had led to gunfire, stone-pelting, and arson. The situation remains fragile, and the local administration has declared that anyone attempting to enter the area must first obtain prior approval, as per Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
Congress Leadership Defies Restrictions
Despite the administration’s requests for delay, Congress officials are determined to go ahead with the visit. Congress General Secretary Avinash Pande voiced strong support for the visit, calling on party members to join the leaders at the Ghazipur border to show solidarity with the victims of the violence. On social media, Pande urged Congress supporters to participate in the delegation’s visit, emphasizing the importance of standing with the people of Sambhal.
Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh reiterated the administration’s plea for the Congress leaders to postpone their visit, citing the continuing sensitivity of the situation.
Investigation and Findings in Sambhal Violence
A forensic team investigating the aftermath of the violence uncovered a concerning discovery: empty cartridges labeled “Made in Pakistan” and “Made in the USA.” These cartridges were found during an examination conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), which has been formed to probe the incident. Police officials have called the findings “serious” and promised to investigate their implications further.
Political Reactions
The violence in Sambhal has sparked a political uproar, with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accusing the BJP of being behind a “well-planned conspiracy.” Yadav alleged that police forces had used both official and personal firearms during the protests, leading to unnecessary fatalities and injuries.
Timeline of Tensions
Tensions in Sambhal began escalating after a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid on November 19, following claims that the mosque was built over a Harihar temple. This led to further unrest when a second survey on November 24 turned violent, culminating in the tragic deaths of four individuals and injuries to several others, including 29 police personnel.
As the investigation into the violence continues, the political battle in Sambhal intensifies, with Congress leaders vowing to proceed with their visit despite the administration’s objections, in a bid to stand with the affected families and ensure justice.
