209 Hindus Fatalities in Sambhal Since 1947: CM Yogi

Lucknow, Dec 16 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, during the Winter Session of the Assembly on Monday, criticized the Opposition for their negligence towards violence perpetrated against Hindus in Sambhal. He revealed that 209 Hindus have been killed in communal conflicts in Sambhal since 1947.

Yogi Adityanath detailed the violent history of the area, stating, “Riots began in Sambhal from 1947. One individual was killed in that year, followed by six more in 1948. Numerous riots occurred between 1958 and 1962, with five fatalities reported in 1976. In 1978, a horrific incident resulted in 184 Hindus being burned alive during mass violence, which led to prolonged curfews. The violence continued into the 1980s, resulting in additional losses: one death in 1980, another in 1982, and four in 1986. From 1990 to 1992, five more lives were lost, with two additional deaths in 1996.”

He accused the Opposition of remaining silent throughout these events.

“Since 1947, 209 Hindus have died in Sambhal, yet no one has spoken out for these innocent victims. Those who express false sorrow today never advocated for justice back then,” he remarked.

Yogi Adityanath recounted the atrocities of the 1978 riots, alleging that a Hindu moneylender, who had extended loans to locals, was specifically targeted, alongside others who sought shelter in his residence.

“They were surrounded, brutally attacked, and murdered in the most inhumane manner. Yet, Opposition leaders have the audacity to discuss harmony today,” he added.

Yogi Adityanath highlighted the improvements in law and order in Uttar Pradesh under his administration. Referring to data from the NCRB, he said, “Since 2017, there has been a 97–99 percent reduction in communal riots in Uttar Pradesh. No significant riots have occurred since 2017, in stark contrast to the Samajwadi Party’s rule from 2012 to 2017, which witnessed 815 communal riots and 192 deaths. Under the BSP's governance from 2007 to 2011, there were 616 communal incidents resulting in 121 deaths.”

He also condemned Opposition parties for their attempts to incite tension over religious issues, especially in Sambhal.

Addressing recent occurrences, he stated, “Following the court’s directive, a survey was conducted peacefully in Sambhal on November 19, 21, and 24. However, tensions escalated on November 23 due to inflammatory speeches made during Friday prayers. The situation worsened after that.”

In response to the Leader of the Opposition, Yogi Adityanath noted, “Historical documents like the Baburnama reference the destruction of a Harihar temple to erect a new structure. The Puranas also mention that Sambhal will host the tenth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The survey, mandated by the court, will uncover the truth.”

He further discussed the historical and cultural ties of the region, asserting, “To this day, many in Sambhal, including Pathans and Sheikhs, recognize their ancestry as Hindus. This ongoing conflict is not a matter of faith but rather a struggle for dominance between Indian and foreign Muslims.”

The CM accused the Opposition of attempting to mislead the populace. “The truth cannot be concealed indefinitely. We have pledged to conduct a judicial inquiry, and ultimately the truth will be revealed,” he stated.