Sambhal Tensions Escalate: Mosque Survey Sparks Deadly Clashes

A court-ordered survey of Sambhal's Jama Masjid has led to violence, resulting in four deaths. Authorities have arrested 50 individuals connected to the clashes. Political leaders have extended support to victims' families amid tightened security, as investigations continue into the incident's instigators.

The Chandausi Court witnessed heightened tension as the court commissioner submitted a pivotal survey report on the Sambhal Jama Masjid-Harihar case. The region has been on edge since November 19, following a local court's directive to conduct a survey of the mosque. Violent confrontations between police and protesters over the survey culminated in the deaths of four individuals.

Political involvement escalated on December 30 when a Samajwadi Party delegation visited the district, providing financial aid of Rs 5 lakh each to the families of those deceased in the violent eruption on November 24. Amidst the unrest, Shrish Chandra, Additional Superintendent of Police, disclosed that 50 arrests have been made in relation to the violence.

Chandra revealed to ANI that a key suspect from the case was apprehended in Delhi's Batla House. "We have taken into custody a total of 50 suspects after the Sambhal violence. Adnan, apprehended in Delhi, was implicated via CCTV footage. The investigation is ongoing to identify those harboring the suspects and promote justice," stated Chandra.

Authorities have intensified security efforts in response to the violence, driven by claims in a local court that the mosque's location was originally a site for the Harihar temple. These events prompted a stone-pelting incident on November 24 during an ASI survey, causing casualties and stirring community unrest.

(With inputs from agencies.)