The commission is investigating whether the violence was a planned conspiracy or a sudden incident
Mohammad bin Ismail | Clarion India
NEW DELHI – A judicial team on Tuesday (January 21) visited the volatile Uttar Pradesh city of Sambhal to investigate the violence that erupted on 24 November 2024 during a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. During the team’s seven-hour visit, it received 52 applications from individuals seeking to record their statements.
Five Muslims were killed in the violence and the deaths were blamed on indiscriminate police firing. However, police maintain that they did not open fire even though several video footages show cops firing at the protesters.
The judicial inquiry commission, tasked with uncovering the events surrounding the violence, began its investigation by inspecting the affected areas and meeting with residents at the PWD guest house. While they did not record statements during the visit, the team has assured the community that statements will be taken during their next visit, expected later this month.
“We are committed to ensuring justice is served. Every voice will be heard,” a commission member stated.
The violence occurred when a court-mandated survey team entered the Shahi Jama Masjid premises. Tensions escalated, leading to a confrontation between police and a gathered mob. The violence spread rapidly, resulting in five fatalities and numerous injuries, including among police officers.
Police allege that the mob initiated the violence by firing shots, while opposition leaders claim that police actions, including the use of personal firearms, were the cause of the fatalities.
Samajwadi Party leader Firoz Khan was among those who submitted applications to the inquiry commission. He expressed his concerns about the handling of the situation and the impact on the community.
“We have come here to inform the commission about the events of 24 November and the hardships faced by the people of Sambhal. Justice must prevail,” Khan stated.
Shahi Jama Masjid Committee President Zafar Ali Advocate also presented an application. He highlighted that the commission’s inquiries extended beyond the violence, touching on historical elements of the mosque, such as its pond, graves, pathways, and an ancient tree.
“They asked about a tree that we believe is 200-400 years old. However, they did not take our statements today but assured us they would on their next visit,” Zafar Ali said.
The police have so far arrested 70 individuals in connection with the violence. The judicial team’s ongoing investigation aims to clarify the sequence of events, determine culpability, and address allegations from both sides.
While police maintain that the mob was responsible for firing the first shots, opposition leaders insist that police mishandling, including the alleged use of personal weapons, escalated the situation unnecessarily.
The investigation has spotlighted the community’s demand for transparency and justice. The submission of 52 applications reflects a collective desire to ensure their voices are included in the inquiry.
“We just want the truth to come out. We hope this commission brings justice to those who suffered,” said a resident who has filed an application.
The judicial commission’s next visit to Sambhal is expected to focus on recording statements and delving deeper into the events of 24 November. The findings of the commission will be pivotal in shaping the legal and administrative response to the tragedy.
The Sambhal violence remains a reminder of the fragile balance between law enforcement and public sentiment. As the investigation continues, the people of Sambhal await clarity, accountability, and justice.