Sambhal Violence Death Toll Rises to 4, Rahul Gandhi Slams UP Govt for Handling of the Situation; Urges SC to Intervene

The death toll in the violent clashes in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, related to a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era mosque has increased to four as of Monday morning. The violence erupted after protests against the survey, which stemmed from a petition alleging that the mosque was built on the ruins of a Hindu temple. Senior Congress leader Rahul blamed the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that the government’s “hasty attitude” is “extremely unfortunate.” The authorities have so far arrested 21 people, including two women, in connection with the unrest. Four FIRs have been filed, and police have been deployed at key locations in the district to ensure security.

In response to the unrest, the district administration has imposed strict prohibitory orders, barring the entry of outsiders until November 30. District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya confirmed the move, stating that no public representatives, social organizations, or outsiders would be allowed into the district without prior permission from the competent authorities.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized the ruling Yogi Adityanath led BJP government for its handling of the situation. In a statement on X, Gandhi expressed his condolences to the families of those killed, stating, “The biased and hasty attitude of the state government on the recent dispute in Sambhal is extremely unfortunate.” He further blamed the BJP for escalating the situation, claiming that the administration's "insensitive action without listening to all parties" contributed to the violence. He also accused the BJP of sowing division between Hindu and Muslim communities, warning that such actions were detrimental to both the state and the country. “I request the Supreme Court to intervene in this matter as soon as possible and provide justice,” he added.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, the newly elected Congress Lok Sabha MP also condemned the state government’s role in the violence. She expressed her concern, stating, “I appeal to the people to maintain peace at all costs.” Like her brother, she called on the Supreme Court to step in and address the situation. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav also blamed the BJP and the state government for orchestrating the violence, claiming that the administration was directly responsible for the tensions in the district.

According to the Deputy Inspector General of Police (Moradabad), Muniraj, three individuals died during the violence that erupted on Sunday, with one more person succumbing to injuries during treatment on Monday. The DIG confirmed that a total of four fatalities had been reported.

The violence began when a mob protesting the survey of the Jama Masjid clashed with security forces. The mob reportedly threw stones and set vehicles on fire, leading to injuries for at least 24 police and administrative personnel. Among the injured were several senior officials, including the Superintendent of Police’s PRO, who was shot in the leg, and the Circle Officer, who was hit by pellets. While the situation has now been described as peaceful, it remains tense. Police officials have indicated that the government may reconsider the internet ban imposed in the area once the situation stabilizes.​