Barq Rejects Charges of Inflammatory Speech; Commits to Support Investigation into Sambhal Unrest

Synopsis
On March 26, Samajwadi Party MP Zia ur Rehman Barq denied allegations of making an inflammatory speech linked to violence at Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal during a court-ordered survey. He pledged full cooperation with the investigation and expressed confidence in the legal system.
Key Takeaways
- Barq denies inflammatory speech allegations.
- He asserts trust in law and judiciary.
- Will appear for investigation on April 8.
- Claims initial complaint inaccurately named him.
- Commits to fully cooperating with authorities.
New Delhi, March 26 (NationPress) Samajwadi Party (SP) MP, Zia ur Rehman Barq, has categorically refuted the claims that he made an inflammatory speech which allegedly incited violence at Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal during a court-mandated survey of the mosque last November.
In response to the notice issued to him, Barq reiterated his stance, emphasizing that the allegations are entirely unfounded.
"You are all aware of the situation, but I will clarify once again. The incident in Sambhal has wrongly implicated me in relation to an inflammatory speech, which is completely inaccurate. It is based on this claim that I received a notice," Barq stated.
"Concerning the notice, I have previously mentioned that as a citizen of this country and a Member of Parliament, I have faith in the law and order system, I respect the Constitution, and I trust the judiciary.
"I am committed to fully cooperating with the investigation. I have been summoned on April 8, and I will attend. I will provide all necessary assistance to the authorities," he added.
Addressing the initial complaint that incorrectly named him, Barq remarked, "When the case was initially filed and my name was wrongfully included, we approached the Speaker of the House, under the leadership of Akhilesh Yadav, to seek justice for the wrong done to us.
"We demanded that justice be served. Now that I have received a notice, we will deliberate and, if needed, pursue further action. However, I will fully cooperate with the investigation as directed by the High Court."
On March 25, the Uttar Pradesh Special Investigation Team issued Barq a notice at his residence in Delhi for his alleged role in the violence that erupted at Sambhal's Shahi Jama Masjid during a court-ordered survey of the mosque on November 24, 2024.