Sambhal Mosque Committee President Detained In Connection With November Violence

Zafar Ali, president of Sambhal's Shahi Jama Masjid committee, was detained by police on Sunday in connection with the violence that erupted in Uttar Pradesh on November 24 last year. The unrest occurred following a court-mandated survey of the historic mosque, which has been at the center of communal tensions.

Sambhal Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar Bishnoi confirmed the arrest to PTI but declined to provide further details about the case. According to officials, Ali was detained by a special investigation team (SIT) to record his statement regarding the violence that resulted in four deaths and numerous injuries.

However, Ali's elder brother, Tahir Ali, has raised serious concerns about the timing of the detention. He alleges that the arrest was deliberately orchestrated to prevent Zafar from testifying before a three-member judicial commission scheduled for March 24. "Around 11:15 am, an inspector and investigating officer visited our home, stating CO Kuldeep Singh wanted to talk," Tahir told reporters.

According to Tahir, his brother remained resolute despite the detention, reportedly stating, "No problem, I am ready to go to jail. I will not back down from the truth." Tahir further claimed that Zafar had previously made public statements alleging police fired shots during the incident and that those who died were victims of police bullets.

The controversy stems from tensions surrounding the Mughal-era mosque, which became a flashpoint after petitions claimed it was built on the site of an ancient Hindu temple. Following the November violence, the Uttar Pradesh government established a four-member panel to investigate the incident.

As investigations continue, contrasting narratives have emerged about what transpired during last year's violence. Tahir Ali has accused the Sambhal administration of intentionally inciting public unrest, while authorities maintain the detention is part of their ongoing investigation into the November clashes.

The case highlights continuing religious tensions in the region and raises questions about the judicial process as both sides present differing accounts of the events that led to the violence and subsequent deaths.