Sambhal violence: ‘Protesters ignored repeated calls to disperse’

What are you doing? Amid violent clashes during the survey at the Shahi Mosque in Sambhal on Sunday, Zafar Ali, the grand sadar (chief) of the mosque committee, said he repeatedly appealed to the crowd to disperse and return to their homes and warned them about opening fire. order at sight. He said that despite his calls, the crowd refused to retreat and he wondered who was stopping them from stepping back.

“I called on people many times to go back and stay at home, but I don’t know who stopped them,” said Ali, who was inside the mosque with the investigation team. he said. The septuagenarian also expressed his deep sorrow over the deaths of three young men during the unrest.

Senior officials, including Moradabad divisional commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar, district magistrate Rajendra Pensia and police chief KK Vishnoi, also appealed to the crowd to refrain from violence. They warned that indulging in illegal activities could have serious consequences on their future. Despite their efforts, the crowd did not yield and continued to escalate the situation.

“Strong action will be taken against those identified as responsible for the violence,” the divisional commissioner said.

Authorities said they are now working with local representatives and influential members of the community to help restore peace in the region.

Three people were killed Sunday when protesters opposing a court-ordered inspection of a Mughal-era mosque in Sambhal clashed with security personnel, officials said. The violence occurred during the second round of investigation at the Shahi Jama Masjid. Following the incident, district magistrate Rajendra Pensia ordered suspension of internet in Sambhal tehsil for 24 hours. Schools will also remain closed for 24 hours within Sambhal tehsil limits.

The mosque was inspected for the first time on Tuesday, November 19, by order of the local court, after a petition claimed that there was a Harihar temple in the area. Tension has been rising in Sambhal ever since.