Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are set to visit violence-hit Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh today, despite prohibitory orders and requests from local authorities to postpone their trip. leaders aim to meet families of victims of November 24 clashes, which claimed four lives and left several others injured.
violence erupted following a controversial survey of Shahi Jama Masjid, which was conducted in response to a petition claiming site was previously a Harihar temple. unrest has led to heightened tensions in district, with authorities struggling to maintain order.
Authorities Urge Delay Amid Prohibitory Orders
Sambhal district magistrate, Rajendra Pensiya, has issued strict orders barring external visitors to district until December 10, citing sensitive nature of situation.
Key Measures Taken by Authorities:
- Border Control: Officials from neighboring districts, including Bulandshahr, Amroha, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar, have been instructed to prevent Rahul Gandhi and his delegation from entering Sambhal.
- Prohibitory Orders: Section 144 remains in effect, restricting public gatherings and requiring prior approval for external visits.
- Heightened Security: Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed in large numbers to prevent further unrest.
Despite these measures, Congress party has reiterated its commitment to proceeding with visit.
Congress Mobilizes Public Support
Congress general secretary Avinash Pande, who oversees party’s operations in Uttar Pradesh, has called for widespread public support for Gandhis’ visit.
In a post on social media platform X, Pande stated:
“A Congress delegation led by Mr. @RahulGandhi ji will leave for Sambhal by road from Delhi tomorrow to meet families of victims of Sambhal violence. To support them in this struggle, I will gather at Ghazipur border with Congress delegation and leave for Sambhal. All of you are appealed to reach Ghazipur border in large numbers with your supporters and give your invaluable contribution in this struggle. Your support is needed in fight for democracy and justice.”
Congress party has framed visit as a demonstration of solidarity with victims and a stand against what they describe as a breakdown of law and order in Uttar Pradesh.
Unsettling Discoveries in Sambhal
Amidst political maneuvering, forensic teams investigating violence site have made disturbing findings.
Key Findings:
- Foreign-Origin Cartridges:
- Six empty cartridges labeled “made in Pakistan” and another labeled “made in USA” were discovered.
- Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar Vishnoi called findings “very serious” and assured a thorough investigation.
- Special Investigation Team (SIT):
- SIT, tasked with probing violence, requested a forensic examination of site, which was conducted alongside municipal teams.
discovery has raised concerns about potential external involvement and use of advanced weaponry during clashes.
Political Accusations Fly
Sambhal violence has become a flashpoint in Uttar Pradesh politics, with opposition leaders accusing BJP-led government of mishandling situation.
Samajwadi Party’s Allegations:
- SP chief Akhilesh Yadav accused BJP of orchestrating a “well-planned conspiracy” to provoke unrest.
- Yadav alleged that police personnel used both official and personal weapons, resulting in casualties and injuries.
- In Parliament, Yadav called for accountability, demanding a fair investigation into police actions during protests.
Background of Sambhal Violence
roots of Sambhal unrest can be traced back to a court-mandated survey of Shahi Jama Masjid on November 19, 2024.
Timeline of Events:
- November 19:
- initial survey was conducted following a petition claiming mosque site was historically a Harihar temple.
- November 24:
- A second survey escalated tensions, sparking violent protests.
- Clashes resulted in:
- Four fatalities.
- Numerous injuries among civilians.
- 29 police officers injured.
- Post-Unrest Measures:
- Prohibitory orders under Section 144 were imposed.
- Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to probe violence.
situation remains tense, with district administration working to restore normalcy while addressing communal tensions.
Congress’s Stand on Violence
Congress party has criticized BJP government for its handling of violence, accusing it of failing to prevent escalation and maintain law and order.
- Rahul Gandhi’s Statement:
- Congress MP has consistently raised issues of communal harmony and justice, emphasizing need for transparency and accountability in addressing such incidents.
- Priyanka Gandhi’s Role:
- As an MP from Wayanad and a prominent Congress leader, Priyanka Gandhi has been vocal about plight of victims, advocating for their rights and justice.
Security Challenges Ahead
visit by Gandhi siblings poses significant logistical and security challenges for Uttar Pradesh administration.
Key Concerns:
- Risk of Escalation:
- high-profile visit may inflame tensions and lead to further unrest.
- Public Sentiment:
- While many see visit as a show of solidarity, others view it as political opportunism.
- Ensuring Safety:
- Security agencies must ensure safety of delegation and local residents amidst heightened tensions.
Looking Ahead
situation in Sambhal highlights ongoing struggle to maintain communal harmony in a politically charged environment. As Gandhis proceed with their visit, focus will remain on:
- Justice for Victims:
- Ensuring that those affected by violence receive compensation and support.
- Transparency in Investigations:
- Addressing concerns about external influences and weaponry used during clashes.
- Accountability of Authorities:
- Holding officials accountable for any lapses in managing situation.
Conclusion
visit by Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi to violence-hit Sambhal underscores significance of addressing communal tensions with sensitivity and urgency. While their presence is expected to bring attention to plight of victims, it also raises questions about political dimensions of such actions.
As investigations continue and political debates intensify, focus must remain on ensuring justice, restoring peace, and preventing further unrest in region.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information and official statements. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, readers are encouraged to verify details independently.
