Digital News Guru Uttar Pradesh Desk:
In a major development in Uttar Pradesh, Zafar Ali, the president of the Shahi Jama Masjid management committee in Sambhal, has been taken into custody by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). His arrest is linked to the November 24, 2024, violence that erupted during protests against a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era mosque. This incident has reignited tensions in the region, with political and community leaders weighing in on the matter.
The arrest has sparked controversy, with supporters of Zafar Ali calling it a politically motivated move, while law enforcement authorities claim it is part of an ongoing investigation into the violent clashes.
Background: The November 24, 2024, Violence
The Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal has been a center of religious and legal disputes. In 2024, a petition was filed in court claiming that the mosque was built on the site of an ancient Hindu temple. As a result, a court ordered a survey of the mosque premises, similar to previous cases involving religious sites in India.
However, the survey order triggered protests, with a section of the Muslim community opposing what they called an attack on their religious identity. On November 24, 2024, these protests turned violent, leading to clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
- Four people lost their lives, and several others, including police officers, were injured.
- Public property was damaged, and curfew-like restrictions were imposed to control the situation.
- The Uttar Pradesh government ordered a high-level investigation, leading to the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
Why Was Zafar Ali Arrested?
The SIT’s investigation into the November 24 violence led to the arrest of over 150 individuals, with more under surveillance. Zafar Ali’s name surfaced during the probe, and authorities believe he played a role in inciting the protests.
Police Statements on the Arrest
Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar Bishnoi confirmed the arrest, stating that:
- Zafar Ali was detained for questioning before being officially arrested.
- The SIT found evidence linking him to the violent protests.
- Authorities believe he was involved in mobilizing crowds and provoking unrest.
- Weapons recovered from protest sites were reportedly supplied by external sources, with some originating from foreign countries like the UK, USA, Germany, and the Czech Republic.
After his arrest, Zafar Ali was presented before a local magistrate and was remanded to judicial custody for two days.
Zafar Ali’s Defense: Claims of Political Targeting
Zafar Ali and his supporters have strongly denied all allegations. As he was taken into custody, he told reporters:
“I did not incite any violence. This is an attempt to suppress my voice.”
Zafar Ali’s brother has also accused authorities of arresting him to prevent him from testifying before a judicial inquiry panel that was set to examine the mosque dispute.
Increased Security and Government Measures
Following the arrest, security measures have been strengthened in Sambhal and surrounding areas:
- Heavy police deployment near the Shahi Jama Masjid and other sensitive locations.
- Surveillance drones monitoring gatherings to prevent further protests.
- Internet restrictions in some areas to prevent the spread of misinformation.
The state government has assured that the investigation will be fair, but tensions remain high as the case unfolds.
Conclusion
The arrest of Zafar Ali, the Shahi Jama Masjid chief, has deepened the communal and political divide in Uttar Pradesh. While the police claim it is a necessary step in the investigation of the November 24 violence, his supporters see it as an unjust crackdown on Muslim leadership.
With tensions running high, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this arrest leads to justice or further controversy. The case will continue to unfold in the courts, shaping public sentiment and political debates leading up to future elections.
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