- विज्ञापन -
New Delhi: The Uttar Pradesh government has initiated a fresh investigation into the 1978 riots in Sambhal and has instructed the police to submit a report within a week.
The Superintendent of Police (SP) received a communication from the Deputy Secretary of the Home (Police) Department, designating an Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) to oversee the investigation. The SP has also reached out to the District Magistrate (DM) to request the appointment of an administrative officer to assist in a joint investigation.
On January 7, Sambhal SP KK Bishnoi wrote to District Officer Dr. Rajendra Pensia, informing him that UP Legislative Council member Shrichandra Sharma had called for an inquiry into the 1978 riots. The SP stated he has since received a letter from UP’s Deputy Secretary of Home and Superintendent of Police (Human Rights).
As part of this investigation, Shrichandra will represent the police.
The 1978 riots in Sambhal reportedly sparked significant communal violence, resulting in arson, the displacement of numerous Hindu families, and the reported deaths of several individuals, prompting many to flee the region.
This renewed focus on the riots follows the recent reopening of the ancient Kartik Mahadev Temple in Sambhal, which had remained closed for 46 years. The temple’s reopening came after a violent incident during a survey at Shahi Jama Masjid in November 2024.
Former residents who escaped due to the riots shared their traumatic experiences and expressed hope that the temple’s reopening symbolizes progress toward justice and reconciliation.
The joint investigation aims to clarify the events of 1978 and ensure accountability for the associated violence.
