Sambhal DA imposes entry ban on outsiders and public leaders till Dec 10; SP leaders detained

The Sambhal district administration (DA) has imposed a continued ban on the entry of outsiders, public representatives, and social organizations into the district until December 10. The order, issued by District Magistrate Rajendra Pandiya, was prompted by recent violent clashes that followed a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid complex in the area. As per the directive, any individual or group wishing to enter the district during this period must obtain prior authorization from the competent authorities. This decision extends the initial restriction, which was set to end on December 1, as the administration seeks to maintain public peace and order.

The restrictions have been enforced after a planned visit by a 15-member delegation from the Samajwadi Party (SP), including senior party leaders, was blocked by police. The delegation intended to visit Sambhal to assess the situation and investigate the causes of the unrest, which saw violent clashes involving local communities. The delegation was detained by the police while en route to the district. Local authorities have stated that the visit would not be allowed due to the current sensitive nature of the situation. The administration has said the entry of political delegations could exacerbate tensions.

In addition to the delegation’s detention, the district administration has cited concerns over the ongoing investigation into the violence. Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed that no political groups or public representatives would be allowed to enter the district at this time. He highlighted that the investigation is focusing on the political and social factors that may have contributed to the unrest. Singh also mentioned that several minors and women were reportedly involved in the violent incidents, complicating the investigation. Authorities are closely examining these elements as they search for the masterminds behind the violence.

The unrest in Sambhal erupted after a mosque survey at the Shahi Jama Masjid complex sparked widespread tensions. According to reports, the violence escalated quickly, and the situation was further inflamed by political leaders making provocative statements. Authorities have not yet fully identified all individuals responsible for inciting the violence but have vowed to continue the investigation to ensure accountability. In the wake of the unrest, security in the district has been increased, and police have been placed on high alert.

Amid the ongoing investigation, Maulana Tauqeer Raza, the national president of the Indian Muslim Council (IMC), was detained while traveling to Sambhal with a convoy of supporters. Police intercepted his convoy near the CB Ganj police station, and he was taken into custody for questioning. Authorities have stated that his detention is part of their broader efforts to manage the volatile situation and to ensure peace in the district. Local police continue to monitor the situation closely, and additional forces have been deployed to prevent any further unrest.

The extension of the entry ban comes as authorities remain cautious about allowing any actions that could further inflame the situation. The administration is working to stabilize the district and prevent any attempts to escalate the unrest. As the investigation continues, the district remains under heightened security measures, with restrictions on entry and movement being strictly enforced until December 10.