Sambhal: Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq has strongly opposed the establishment of an Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) office in Sambhal. Speaking to reporters, he said Muslims are being unfairly targeted and linked with terrorism despite no court ever convicting locals of such charges.
Barq argued that the district does not need an ATS unit, but better facilities for education, healthcare, and employment. He urged the government to open universities, medical colleges, and industries instead of creating fear by deploying security agencies. According to him, such initiatives would benefit both Muslim and Hindu communities by improving opportunities for the youth.
The MP expressed particular anger at the reported plan to build the ATS office on land belonging to a graveyard. He said he had already lodged objections with the district administration and raised the matter with the Waqf Board. “The government has no shortage of land, then why seize graveyards?” he asked.
Barq also accused the government of misusing the Waqf law to target Muslims. He said Muslim religious properties are being taken over even before the bill is passed. He added that this amounts to disrespecting community sentiments.
He further underlined that Indian Muslims have always remained loyal to the country and made sacrifices for it. “The youth of Sambhal now want good education and employment so that they do not have to migrate to other cities,” Barq said. He demanded that the government shift its focus from suspicion and surveillance to development and inclusivity.
