27 Arrested, 7 FIRs Filed Over Sambhal Violence Linked to Mosque Survey: Authorities

Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh), November 27: Authorities have confirmed the arrest of 27 individuals and the registration of seven FIRs in connection with the violence and stone-pelting incident during an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of a Mughal-era mosque in Sambhal district. The divisional commissioner of Moradabad, Aunjaneya Kumar Singh, stated on Tuesday that efforts are underway to restore normalcy in the area.

“So far, 7 FIRs have been registered, 22 people have been named, and 27 have been arrested. 74 people have been identified, and the process for identifying others is ongoing. Our priority is to normalize the situation and bring people into confidence so they are not influenced by external factors,” Singh said.

Appeal for Restraint

Commissioner Singh urged people from all sections of society to avoid making baseless statements and emphasized community cooperation.

“People are cooperating, not just with the investigation but also in normalizing the situation. We are collecting evidence, based on which further actions will be taken. We are hopeful that things will return to normal soon,” he added.

Key Accused Include SP Leaders

On Monday, Singh confirmed that those implicated in the violence include Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq and the son of a local MLA. Singh assured that the situation in Sambhal has stabilized and that an investigation is underway.

“The situation in Sambhal is peaceful. FIRs have been registered, including one for incitement against Sambhal MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq and the local MLA’s son. Four people have died, and the injured are being treated. Strict action will be taken, and if needed, the National Security Act (NSA) will be invoked,” Singh stated.

Complaint Filed Against 800 People

Sambhal SP Krishna Kumar Bishnoi revealed that a complaint has been lodged against 800 individuals in connection with the violence.

“Our sub-inspector, Deepak Rathi, who was injured during the incident, has filed a complaint against 800 people. Barq and Sohail Iqbal have been accused of instigating the mob. Barq has a history of provocative speeches, for which he had previously been warned,” Bishnoi said during a joint press conference with other officials.

Background of the Incident

The ASI survey, which triggered the unrest, was part of a legal process related to the mosque. The first survey, conducted on November 19, involved local police and members of the mosque’s management committee to oversee proceedings. Authorities suspect external influences and provocations led to the escalation of tensions during the most recent survey.