Case registered against youth after complaint from the caretaker of the MP’s residence
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — Samajwadi Party’s Lok Sabha member from Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh, Ziaur Rahman Barq, and his father, Maulana Mamlouk-ur-Rehman Barq, have allegedly been threatened with death by a youth out on bail after he tried to enter Shahi Jama Masjid in the city during Friday prayers earlier this month. The threatening incident reportedly occurred on December 26, at the MP’s residence in Mohalla Deepa Sarai under the Nakhasa police station jurisdiction.
A complaint has been filed in this connection by Kamil, the caretaker of the MP’s residence. According to the complaint, the youth barged into the house and issued death threats to both the MP and his father. The situation escalated when the accused tried to confront the family, but fled the scene as a crowd gathered.
On December 20, the same individual, donning a tilak on his forehead and a saffron towel around his neck, allegedly attempted to enter the Jama Masjid during Friday prayers amidst tight security arrangements. His actions raised tensions, and he was detained for breaching peace before being released on bail.
The local police have registered a case based on Kamil’s complaint and initiated a probe. SP Krishna Kumar Bishnoi commented: “We have registered a case regarding the death threat and are thoroughly investigating the matter. Appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.”
Interestingly, the accused was earlier described by authorities as “mentally unstable.” However, this justification has drawn criticism from various quarters, with many questioning the handling of such incidents.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly among the Muslim population, who view the act as part of a larger pattern of intimidation. A resident expressed his concerns: “Such actions are not isolated. They seem to be part of a disturbing trend where members of our community are targeted and threatened without serious consequences for the perpetrators.”
Political leaders have condemned the incident, urging the police to expedite the investigation and ensure justice. A Samajwadi Party member stated: “This is not just an attack on an individual or his family; it is an attack on democracy. Threatening an elected representative is a serious crime, and such acts must not be trivialised.”
The accused’s prior attempt to enter the Jama Masjid on December 20 raised eyebrows as it coincided with Friday prayers, a sensitive time for the Muslim community. Despite strict security measures in place, his actions have caused unease. A local cleric remarked, “It seems there is a deliberate attempt to provoke and disrupt the harmony of our religious gatherings. The authorities must ensure such provocations are dealt with firmly.”
The accused’s release on bail following the earlier incident has also been scrutinized. Critics argue that leniency in such cases emboldens individuals to repeat their actions.
Amid rising communal tensions, leaders and activists have called for swift justice and strict action against the perpetrator. A political analyst observed: “If such incidents go unchecked, they risk undermining the rule of law and eroding public trust in the justice system. The authorities must act decisively.”
The threat against MP Barq and his father underscores the challenges faced by minority communities in the current socio-political climate. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance, impartial law enforcement, and a commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens.
As investigations continue, the spotlight remains on the authorities to ensure justice is served and that such threats are not dismissed lightly, ensuring the safety and security of all individuals, regardless of their community.
