Lucknow: A 15-member delegation from the Samajwadi Party (SP), set to visit Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh on Saturday, was halted by heavy police presence outside the residence of Leader of Opposition (LoP) Mata Prasad Pandey.
The delegation was organized under the directive of SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, with the objective of gathering detailed information about recent incidents in Sambhal. They intended to compile a report for the SP National President.
The group, led by Pandey and including Legislative Council leader Lal Bihari Yadav, party state President Shyam Lal Pal, and various MLAs and MLCs, found their departure obstructed by security officials. Although they considered heading to the party office, they were also unable to leave Pandey’s residence.
In response, Pandey stated, “The police have no authority to stop us. While there was a restriction on traveling to Sambhal, they cannot prevent us from going elsewhere.” He criticized the police’s actions, labeling them as unconstitutional and illegal, emphasizing the fundamental right to travel as per the Constitution.
The delegation had planned to stop in Moradabad before arriving in Sambhal, intending to meet with violence victims and the families of those killed during the clashes.
These clashes erupted when a court-mandated survey team arrived at the disputed Mughal-era Jama Masjid, where claims of a Harihar temple existing on the site sparked conflict. Protesters engaged in stone-pelting against the police and survey team, leading to escalated violence, vehicular arson, and gunfire, resulting in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to numerous others, including police personnel.
Subsequently, internet services in the area were suspended, and restrictions on outsiders were imposed to maintain order. A significant police presence remained around the Shahi Jama Masjid during Friday prayers to ensure public safety.
Currently, the situation in Sambhal appears calm, with schools reopening and normal activities resuming. The planned visit by the SP delegation highlights the political and social implications of the violence as investigations into the causes and repercussions continue.