New Delhi: The Allahabad High Court has granted interim relief to Samajwadi Party MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq by staying legal proceedings in connection with last year’s violence at the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal. The court’s order protects the Lok Sabha member from arrest or further legal action until the next hearing.
Justice Sameer Jain issued the stay while hearing Barq’s petition, which challenged the proceedings pending before the MP-MLA Special Court in Sambhal. Barq has been named a key accused in the November 24, 2024 incident that led to the death of five Muslim youths, reportedly in police firing. Authorities allege that Barq’s speech days earlier incited tensions. The FIR also mentions Suhail Iqbal, son of MLA Iqbal Mahmood.
Barq has denied all charges, terming them politically motivated. In his petition, he stated he was in Bengaluru during the incident and later remained in Delhi to prevent escalation. His counsel argued that arresting him would cause irreparable harm to his political career and the Samajwadi Party.
The court’s order follows similar relief granted recently to SP legislator Abbas Ansari in a hate speech case, underlining judicial caution in politically sensitive matters.
Clashes during the mosque survey had involved stone-pelting, arson, and damage to police vehicles. Local leaders, including Barq, have repeatedly urged calm in Sambhal, where disputes over the mosque’s location continue to create tension.
The next hearing will decide whether the proceedings against Barq are quashed or allowed to continue. For now, the stay has been welcomed by his supporters, who view it as a step toward fairness and stability in a volatile situation.
