Sambhal: The arrest of Advocate Zafar Ali, President of the Shahi Jama Masjid Committee, has sparked outrage among lawyers and the local community in Sambhal. On Monday, a large number of lawyers staged a protest march, condemning the police action and demanding Ali’s immediate release. The protest, which saw lawyers marching from the court premises to Shankar Chowk, was marked by slogans against the police and calls for justice. In response, security was heightened across key locations in the city.
According to reports, Ali was arrested on Sunday for his alleged involvement in the violence that erupted on November 24, 2024, during a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. He faces multiple charges, including conspiracy, rioting, and inciting violence. Authorities have sent him to judicial custody, a move that has fueled anger among his supporters.
The arrest comes amid ongoing tensions in Sambhal over the mosque’s historical claims. Ali had been a vocal critic of the police, accusing them of firing at protesters and holding them responsible for the deaths of five Muslims during the unrest. His supporters see his arrest as an act of political and administrative oppression.
In light of the protests, heavy police deployment, including personnel from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Response Force (RRF), has been put in place. Senior officials, including Superintendent of Police (SP) Krishan Kumar Bishnoi and Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Pradeep Verma, led a flag march on Sunday evening, urging citizens to maintain peace and ignore rumors.
Ali’s arrest has intensified political and religious tensions in the region. His supporters argue that the action against him is part of a broader crackdown on Muslim leaders and organizations. Meanwhile, authorities maintain that all legal procedures are being followed, and the investigation is progressing as per due process.
As the situation unfolds, the legal fraternity, local community members, and civil rights groups continue to voice concerns over what they describe as targeted action against Muslim activists in the region.
