BJP Government Affirms Commitment to Prevent Demographic Change in Sambhal Amid Ongoing Investigations

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak stated that the BJP government will prevent any demographic changes in Sambhal. He discussed the upcoming judicial commission report regarding the November 2024 violence and reiterated the party's commitment to maintaining stability in the region.

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak stated on Saturday that the BJP government is committed to preventing any demographic changes in Sambhal. He mentioned that the judicial commission's report on the November 2024 violence in the town will be discussed once it is presented to the state cabinet. The report has not yet been made public, and further actions will be considered after cabinet discussions.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had earlier indicated that the judicial commission's findings pointed to a conspiracy behind the riots in Sambhal. He emphasised that there is no room for demographic shifts in the state. Pathak clarified that his remarks were independent of the report's findings. He reiterated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath frequently highlight attempts by certain groups, influenced by foreign powers, to alter demographics in Uttar Pradesh and other states.

Historical Context and Religious Significance

The issue of demographic change in Sambhal has historical roots, with discussions predating 2024 and even India's Independence. A riot occurred in Sambhal in 1924, resulting in the deaths of many Hindu families. Mahatma Gandhi had then sent Jawaharlal Nehru to visit the area from September 8-10, 1924. Nehru submitted a 13-page report to Gandhi on September 12, detailing his observations.

Pathak claimed that Nehru's report mentioned a Harihar temple, originally built by Prithviraj Chauhan, which was converted into a mosque by Babar. This document suggests that the hardships faced by Hindus in Sambhal were not sudden occurrences. Additionally, religious texts predict Lord Kalki's reincarnation in Sambhal, reinforcing its significance for many Indians.

Government Actions and Opposition Criticism

The deputy chief minister criticised previous governments for allowing societal divisions and population imbalances through appeasement policies. He noted that no action was taken by past administrations, but the current government is committed to maintaining law and order across Sambhal and Uttar Pradesh.

Between 2012 and 2017, under Akhilesh Yadav's leadership, appeasement politics was prevalent. However, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's leadership, efforts are underway to strengthen law and order. Following the Sambhal violence, over 68 mythological sites and 19 ancient wells have been restored after removing encroachments.

Judicial Panel Findings and Political Reactions

A three-member judicial panel submitted its report on Thursday regarding the violence near Shahi Jama Masjid on November 24, 2024. The unrest resulted in four deaths and several injuries during an ASI-monitored survey of the mosque. Sources suggest the report highlights a significant demographic shift in Sambhal, targeting Hindus, with radical groups and external rioters playing roles.

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav criticised the BJP government, labelling their narrative of exodus as propaganda and a major failure. He argued that this propaganda reflects the government's inability to foster societal harmony due to its divisive politics.

The government has reclaimed 73 hectares of land by removing 1,067 encroachments in Sambhal. Thirty-seven illegal structures were also cleared from mosques, shrines, madrassas, and graveyards. The administration remains firm against any unlawful occupations.

With inputs from PTI