Rahul Gandhi's Sambhal Visit Triggers Traffic Jam At Delhi-Meerut Expressway

The Delhi-Meerut Expressway faced a severe traffic bottleneck at the Ghazipur border due to a large congregation of Congress supporters, amidst stringent barricading by the Uttar Pradesh Police.

The blockade was in anticipation of Rahul Gandhi's journey to Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. The law enforcement had initiated vehicle checks and installed barricades to thwart any potential disturbances.

Photo Credit: PTI

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Swatantra Kumar Singh, expressed to PTI that the police were prepared for the assembly, stating, "We have input about the gathering on the highway. We have deployed security personnel to prevent any untoward incident."

In the wake of Rahul Gandhi's intended visit, the Uttar Pradesh Police took preventive measures, given the imposition of prohibitory orders in Sambhal. Ghaziabad Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Mishra communicated to PTI, "We will not permit Rahul Gandhi to Sambhal as prohibitory orders have been issued by the administration there. Police will stop Gandhi at UP gate."

These restrictions fall under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), aimed at addressing urgent cases of nuisance or anticipated danger, and have been prolonged until December 31 in Sambhal.

The Buildup of Tension in Sambhal

The situation in Sambhal had been escalating since November 19, following a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era mosque, amid claims that it was originally a Harihar temple site. The tension reached a boiling point during a second survey on November 24, leading to clashes between protesters and security forces near the Shahi Jama Masjid. This unrest resulted in four fatalities and numerous injuries.

Rahul Gandhi's Planned Visit

Amidst the heightened security and traffic disruptions, a delegation led by Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, is scheduled to visit the violence-affected area of Sambhal on Wednesday. Accompanying him will be five Congress MPs from Uttar Pradesh, with the newly-elected Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also expected to join.

This visit comes in response to the recent disturbances and aims to address the unrest in the region.

The unfolding events underscore the volatile situation in Sambhal, sparked by historical and cultural disputes. The authorities' decision to extend prohibitory orders highlights the challenges in managing public order amidst political and social tensions. As the date of Rahul Gandhi's anticipated visit approaches, the region remains on edge, with security forces on high alert to prevent further escalations.

To conclude, the convergence of Congress workers on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway and the subsequent traffic jam underscore the tense atmosphere in the lead-up to Rahul Gandhi's visit to Sambhal. The extended prohibitory orders and the high-security measures reflect the authorities' efforts to maintain peace and order in the face of potential unrest.

As the situation unfolds, the implications of this political mobilization and the government's response will likely resonate beyond Sambhal, highlighting the complex interplay between politics, historical grievances, and law enforcement in Uttar Pradesh.