Violence broke out in Sambhal on Sunday as protests against a court-mandated survey of the Jama Masjid, a historic Mughal-era mosque, escalated into clashes with security personnel. The unrest has now claimed five lives, with two more individuals succumbing to their injuries during treatment late on Sunday night in Moradabad. The deceased have been identified as Mohd Kaif and Mohd Ayan, according to official sources.
The Incident
The clashes began when a court-ordered survey of the Jama Masjid, situated in Sambhal, was met with stiff resistance from locals who opposed the move. Protesters gathered in large numbers, leading to a confrontation with law enforcement authorities deployed to maintain order. What began as a peaceful demonstration quickly turned violent, with reports of stone-pelting and the use of tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Rising Death Toll
The situation turned tragic as the number of casualties continued to rise. Three individuals lost their lives during the initial clashes, while two others succumbed to their injuries in the hospital later that night. Hospital officials in Moradabad confirmed the identities of the deceased as Mohd Kaif and Mohd Ayan. Several others remain hospitalized, with some in critical condition.
Security Measures and Prohibitory Orders
In response to the violence, prohibitory orders under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure have been imposed in Sambhal to prevent further unrest. Additional security forces have been deployed to the area to restore calm and ensure the safety of residents. Authorities have urged citizens to maintain peace and refrain from actions that could escalate the situation.
Background and Context
The court-mandated survey of the Jama Masjid is part of ongoing legal proceedings concerning the historical and religious significance of the site. Similar surveys in other parts of the country have also sparked tensions, highlighting the sensitive nature of such initiatives.
Appeals for Peace
Local leaders and community representatives have appealed for calm, emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and legal channels. The administration has assured that a thorough investigation into the incident will be conducted, and those responsible for the violence will be held accountable.
As the situation unfolds, the incident in Sambhal underscores the delicate balance between judicial directives and maintaining communal harmony in sensitive regions. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, aiming to prevent further escalation and ensure a return to normalcy.