New Delhi: The unrest surrounding the survey of Jama Masjid in Sambhal shows no signs of subsiding, with three deaths reported so far. Among the injured are the Circle Officer (CO) Sadar and the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Sambhal Superintendent of Police (SP), both of whom sustained gunshot wounds. Over 25 police personnel and a total of more than three dozen people have been injured.
In response to the escalating violence, the district administration has suspended internet services for 24 hours and ordered the closure of schools up to Class 8. District Magistrate Dr Rajendra Pansia issued directives to seal off the area surrounding the mosque and deploy heavy police force to maintain order.
Fifteen miscreants arrested so far
According to officials, at least 25 police personnel were injured during the violence, with one officer in critical condition. Among the civilian casualties, three young men lost their lives—two due to gunshot wounds and one from injuries sustained in a stampede. Videos of the incident have gone viral on social media platforms, prompting police to identify and arrest over 15 miscreants, including two women. Investigations are ongoing.
Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Anjaneya Kumar Singh said that a survey team had arrived at Jama Masjid around 7am on the day of the incident. Soon after, a large crowd gathered, and troublemakers from different directions initiated chaos. The mob resorted to stone-pelting and firing, forcing the police to use tear gas and pellet guns to control the situation.
Rioters used women and kids as shield
Commissioner Singh described the violence as premeditated, with anti-social elements well-prepared for the confrontation. Despite the clashes outside, the survey inside the mosque was completed by 10am, and the team was safely escorted away.
The CO Sadar and the Sambhal SP’s PRO sustained gunshot injuries to their legs. Additionally, over 25 police officers suffered injuries in the melee. Rioters also torched several vehicles belonging to police officials, including those of Chandausi CO and other officers. The mob used women and children, some as young as 12-14 years old, as human shields during the violence.
DIG Moradabad Range Muniraj G confirmed that officers, including an SDM, were injured in the violence. The police had to resort to tear gas and baton charges to disperse the mob. DIG Muniraj clarified that the police did not use lethal weapons and reiterated that the deaths were caused by firing from the rioters.
Security forces conduct flag march
Senior officials, including the Moradabad Divisional Commissioner, DIG, and Bareilly ADG, are currently stationed in Sambhal to oversee the situation. Security forces conducted a flag march around the mosque area late at night to instil confidence among residents.
Sambhal District Magistrate announced the suspension of internet services and urged residents to avoid rumours. SP Sambhal assured the public that efforts are underway to identify and arrest those involved in the violence. The situation remains tense but under control, according to authorities. The district administration and police are working round the clock to ensure peace and apprehend the culprits behind the unrest.
