UP Police Heighten Security Ahead of Friday Prayers in Sambhal
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Sambhal, Dec 5 (NationPress) Following the recent outbreaks of violence, the police department in UP's Sambhal has taken significant steps to bolster security and maintain order as Friday prayers approach. Plans are underway to showcase posters of those implicated in rioting and vandalism at major crossroads throughout the city.
"We have not yet released any posters, but preparations are in progress," stated Sambhal SP Krishna Kumar Bishnoi during a press briefing on Thursday.
The turmoil that transpired on November 24 led to damages estimated at over Rs 1 crore, and authorities are determined to recover these losses from the identified rioters. The upheaval resulted in the tragic deaths of four young individuals, leaving many areas desolate and homes locked as residents fled due to fears of police reprisals.
On Thursday, an ASP and a CO, accompanied by police officers, surveyed the streets affected by violence, where previous incidents of stone pelting against officers had occurred. In neighborhoods such as Mohalla Kot Garvi under Sadar Kotwali, numerous homes remain shut.
To date, 34 rioters have been apprehended, with around 400 suspects identified, according to police sources.
Authorities are also contemplating reaching out to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to investigate potential links to terrorism, especially after the discovery of cartridges made in Pakistan during their inquiries.
SP Bishnoi reported that 29 police personnel were injured in the clashes on November 24. "To ensure peace, a substantial security framework has been established, incorporating personnel from various police stations, PAC, RAF, and numerous senior officers. A three-tiered security plan has been arranged at the Jama Masjid in Sambhal for Friday prayers," he explained.
District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya confirmed the assignment of 30 magistrates and encouraged the public to pray in local mosques. The Peace Committee has also called for serenity and collaboration.
While the situation in the city is progressively stabilizing, the administration remains vigilant as it readies for the second Friday prayers since the violence erupted. Security measures have been further tightened, particularly in anticipation of the December 6 anniversary of the Babri mosque demolition.
The unrest in Sambhal began on November 24 during an ASI inspection of the historic Mughal-era Mosque, Shahi Jama Masjid. The clashes resulted in four fatalities and numerous injuries among both police and local residents.
The initial phase of the ASI survey was conducted on November 19, shortly after a local court mandated it based on petitions from eight applicants asserting that the mosque was constructed following the destruction of a temple.
