SP MP Ziaur Rehman Barq Testifies Before Judicial Commission Regarding Sambhal Unrest
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Synopsis
On April 16, SP MP Ziaur Rehman Barq appeared before a judicial commission in Lucknow regarding the November 24 Sambhal violence. He maintains his innocence concerning accusations of inciting unrest during an ASI survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid.
Key Takeaways
- Ziaur Rehman Barq appeared before a judicial commission.
- The commission is investigating violence in Sambhal.
- Barq denies allegations of incitement.
- Former judges and officials comprise the commission.
- Key testimonies are being recorded for clarity on the unrest.
New Delhi, April 16 (NationPress) Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Ziaur Rehman Barq appeared before a three-member judicial commission in Lucknow on Wednesday. This commission is investigating the violence that occurred in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, on November 24 of last year.
The unrest erupted during a court-ordered ASI survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, with Barq accused of making a provocative speech that allegedly sparked the violence.
Prior to his testimony, Barq asserted his innocence and expressed confidence in the judicial process.
"I am here today to face the committee. I am hopeful that we will receive justice," said the SP MP. "I will respond to the questions posed to me, and I come with the expectation of justice," he added.
Barq has repeatedly rejected the allegations as baseless and politically driven.
The judicial commission, formed by the state government on November 28 last year, comprises former high court judge Justice DK Arora, former chief secretary Amit Mohan Prasad, and ex-DGP Arvind Kumar Jain.
Previously, Barq appeared before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) on April 8 regarding the same incident.
The commission is actively gathering testimonies from key figures to ascertain the factors contributing to the unrest and the potential involvement of public officials.
Furthermore, the commission is expected to hear from Zafar Ali, the chairman of the Jama Masjid managing committee, who is currently incarcerated in Moradabad prison after being arrested by Sambhal police for allegedly inciting violence during the ASI survey.
The violence in question occurred on November 24, 2023, when clashes broke out during the mosque survey. Numerous individuals have been charged in relation to these events.
