Judicial Inquiry Team Reaches Sambhal to Investigate Unrest
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Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh), Dec 1 (NationPress) The three-member judicial commission created to probe the violence that occurred on November 24 in Sambhal reached the city on Sunday.
The commission's task is to examine how and under what conditions the riot transpired. An extensive review of the current situation will be conducted, along with investigations into the stone-pelting incident and the assault on police personnel.
In anticipation of the panel's visit, security measures in the city were significantly enhanced.
Prior to their visit, the commission members had a meeting with Moradabad Commissioner Anjaneya Kumar Singh to gather information regarding the incident.
The Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, mandated a judicial inquiry into the matter. The three-member committee, established on November 28 via a notification from the Home Department, is chaired by retired High Court judge Devendra Kumar Arora.
Joining him are retired IAS officer Amit Mohan Prasad and former IPS officer Arvind Kumar Jain. The commission has been allotted two months to present its findings, with any extensions necessitating government consent.
The unrest erupted following a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, linked to a petition asserting the existence of a Harihar temple at the site. The clashes on November 24 led to the deaths of four individuals and numerous injuries.
The survey report for the Jama Masjid was anticipated on Friday but was postponed as Court Commissioner Ramesh Chandra Raghav requested an additional 10 days to finalize it. The report is now expected by December 8, with the next hearing set for January 8.
The Supreme Court intervened, instructing the trial court to suspend proceedings in the case and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and harmony. The mosque committee has been advised to seek appropriate legal channels to contest the district court's survey order.
A substantial police presence was established around the Shahi Jama Masjid, particularly during Friday prayers, to ensure order. The atmosphere in Sambhal has returned to calm, with regular activities resuming. However, internet services remain suspended in the area, and entry for outsiders continues to be restricted.
The police are still enforcing strict surveillance at sensitive locations in Sambhal, monitoring all activities closely. Clear directives have been issued to respond promptly to any suspicious actions or potential disturbances.
