The move has triggered unrest and speculation, particularly among the Muslim community, who view the decision as politically motivated
Mohammad Alamullah | Clarion India
LUCKNOW – The Uttar Pradesh government has sought a detailed status report from the Sambhal district administration within a week concerning the 1978 Sambhal riots, where conflicting reports claim up to 184 people died, while official records cite only 24 deaths. The move has triggered unrest and speculation, particularly among the Muslim community, who view the decision as politically motivated.
The demand for the report followed BJP MLC Shri Chandra Sharma’s call for a re-investigation during a recent Vidhan Parishad meeting. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also hinted at a possible probe into the decades-old riots, further igniting tensions in the Muslim-majority district.
Sambhal Police Captain KK Bishnoi, in a letter dated January 7, addressed District Magistrate DrRajendra Pansia, citing Shri Chandra Sharma’s claims of 184 deaths during the riots. The letter referenced instructions from the Uttar Pradesh Deputy Secretary (Home) and the Superintendent of Police (Human Rights) seeking a factual report on the incident.
The police have appointed an Additional Superintendent of Police to compile the report, while the District Magistrate has been instructed to designate an administrative officer for the task. Meanwhile, the Moradabad Commissioner has also requested historical documents related to the case, suggesting a broader administrative interest in the matter.
However, this move has sparked apprehensions among the local Muslim population, with many questioning the timing and intent behind revisiting the decades-old violence. “The focus should be on ensuring peace and justice for current issues rather than unearthing past tragedies,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous.
Concerns have also emerged about the possible communal impact of such an inquiry. “It seems like an attempt to divert attention from current issues faced by Muslims in the region,” remarked activist Faizan Ahmed, adding that the focus should remain on preventing present-day violence rather than politicising historical events.
The riots of 1978 were marked by severe communal violence, with numerous families affected. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently remarked, “Many families had to migrate due to the violence. It is essential to uncover the true extent of the tragedy and ensure justice.”
Critics argue that the government’s track record raises doubts about impartiality. “This government has repeatedly targeted Muslim-majority areas under the pretext of historical probes. This report request seems to fit a pattern of selective justice,” said political analyst Arif Qureshi.
Meanwhile, local authorities have been instructed to approach the matter sensitively. “The status report demand does not imply a full investigation yet,” clarified a senior police official, urging residents to remain calm while the inquiry proceeds.
Tensions remain high as the district awaits further developments. Many community leaders have called for transparency and fairness in handling the sensitive issue, urging the government to focus on fostering communal harmony rather than reopening old wounds.
