Congress Leader Criticizes UP Government After Being Prevented from Visiting Sambhal
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Lucknow, Dec 2 (NationPress) The Uttar Pradesh Congress Legislature Party leader Aradhana Misra Mona on Monday accused the Congress leaders of being subjected to "house arrest" to stop their visit to the violence-affected Sambhal, terming it as "anarchy" and "hooliganism" by the state government.
The state Congress President Ajay Rai, along with other party officials, had arranged a trip to Sambhal on Monday. However, the Lucknow Police issued a notice to Rai, advising him to delay the visit, citing restrictions placed by the District Magistrate of Sambhal under Section 163 BNSS to preserve communal harmony and public order in the sensitive area.
Despite this, Misra asserted that police forces were stationed outside the homes of other Congress leaders, obstructing their departure.
Characterizing the scenario as "government anarchy," Misra stated, "A tragic event has occurred in Sambhal, where five individuals were shot dead, and around 30 policemen sustained injuries. This is not a trivial issue."
"A Congress delegation led by state president Ajay Rai aimed to conduct a fact-finding mission and promote peace. Since last night, I have been confined to my home. The police presence here is clear evidence. Our state president and other leaders are also being hindered. This is purely the government's anarchy," she added.
Misra further accused the administration of utilizing Section 163 as a facade to conceal its shortcomings.
"The government is invoking Section 163 to prevent us, but it pertains to Sambhal, not Lucknow. We are not being permitted to leave our residences. This is the government's absolute hooliganism," she expressed.
Earlier, Rai questioned the timing of the restrictions, observing that the prohibition on outsiders entering Sambhal was only applicable until November 30, and the Congress had intentionally selected December 2 for their visit.
"They issued the notice under Section 163 this morning. Nevertheless, we are resolute in proceeding in our own Gandhian manner," Rai informed IANS.
This incident follows an earlier event on Saturday when a 15-member delegation of the Samajwadi Party (SP), led by Leader of Opposition Mata Prasad Pandey, was barred by substantial police presence from entering Sambhal.
The delegation was prevented from departing from Pandey's residence, and even their attempt to reach the party office was obstructed by security personnel.
The situation escalated after clashes in Sambhal during a court-ordered survey of the disputed Mughal-era Jama Masjid, which is involved in claims regarding a Harihar temple.
The violence led to fatalities, injuries to police personnel, and considerable property damage. In response, authorities have implemented restrictions and increased police presence to restore order, also suspending Internet services in the vicinity.
