Sambhal:
On Thursday, the Sambhal administration announced it would display posters of those involved in the November 24 violence, while police increased security in the district ahead of December 6—the anniversary of the 1992 demolition of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya by Hindu right-wing groups.
Police have estimated the damage from arson and vandalism in the Sambhal violence to exceed Rs 1 crore. “We will display posters of those involved in the Sambhal violence… most likely today,” District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya told PTI.
He stated that authorities have identified over 400 individuals linked to the violence that erupted last month during a local mosque survey. “A peace committee meeting is scheduled for 3 pm, where we will discuss the situation with everyone,” he added.
Superintendent of Police (SP) Krishna Kumar Bishnoi stated that efforts are underway to apprehend the remaining accused. “So far, 34 individuals have been arrested, and efforts to capture the others are ongoing. The names of 83 people have come to light, and 400 photographs have been collected.”
Regarding the damages, Bishnoi added, “Damages exceeding Rs 1 crore have been reported, including burnt transformers, damaged cameras, and vehicles set on fire. Recovery will be made from the rioters once they are identified, and chargesheets will be filed against them.”
Sambhal police have already released several images of individuals allegedly involved in the violence. In these photos, nine people have been identified, and assistance is being sought from the public to help identify those whose faces are covered with masks.
Security intensified in preparation for December 6.
Regarding preparations for December 6, the day the Babri Masjid was demolished by kar sevaks, the SP stated, “Sambhal district is fully prepared. A company of RAF, nine companies of PAC, and additional RRF personnel have been deployed. Police will be stationed at every corner to ensure the day remains peaceful.” Tensions had been rising in Sambhal since November 19, when a Mughal-era mosque was surveyed on court orders after claims that a Harihar temple once stood at the site. Violence broke out during a second survey on November 24, when protesters gathered near the Shahi Jama Masjid and clashed with security forces. The unrest led to the deaths of four individuals and left many others injured.
