Sambhal on High Alert Ahead of Friday Prayers

Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh: -Following recent violence during an ASI survey at a mosque in Sambhal on November 24, the police administration is on high alert ahead of Friday prayers. Security measures have been intensified across the city, with a significant deployment of police personnel, PAC, RAF, and senior officers. Three-layered security arrangements have been put in place at the Jama Masjid in Sambhal for Friday prayers.

Sambhal SP Krishna Kumar Bishnoi told reporters that 29 policemen were injured in the November 24 clashes, which resulted in four deaths and extensive damage to property. Authorities estimate the damages to be over Rs 1 crore, which they plan to recover from the identified rioters. Authorities have arrested 34 rioters and identified 400 suspects. Police are investigating the possibility of a terror connection following the recovery of Pakistani-made cartridges during the investigation and are considering contacting the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

In anticipation of further unrest, authorities are preparing to display posters of those accused of rioting and vandalism at prominent intersections across the city. "So far, we have not released any posters but are preparing to do so," said Bishnoi.

The violence erupted on November 24 during an ASI visit to the Mughal-era Mosque Shahi Jama Masjid following a court order issued on petitions claiming the mosque was built on the site of a destroyed temple. The ASI survey, which began on November 19, was the first since the court order.

The unrest left four youths dead, with locked houses and deserted streets as residents fled the police. On Thursday, ASP and CO, along with the police, inspected streets affected by violence, where police had been pelted with stones earlier.

District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya confirmed deploying 30 magistrates and urged citizens to pray at local mosques. The Peace Committee appeals for calm and cooperation. While the situation in the city is gradually returning to normal, the administration remains cautious, especially in light of the December 6 anniversary of the Babri mosque demolition.