Lucknow: Samajwadi Party MP Zia-Ur Rahman Barq is facing police questioning regarding the November 24, 2024, violence in Sambhal, which resulted in five deaths and multiple injuries, including law enforcement personnel. Barq has been named as a key accused in one of the First Information Reports (FIRs) and has been summoned to clarify his role and communications before and after the incident.
The investigation gained momentum following the arrest of Zafar Ali, the Jama Masjid committee head, in connection with the violence. Authorities are preparing to issue a Section 41(A) CrPC notice, requiring Barq to appear for questioning. Sambhal Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Krishan Kumar Bishnoi stated that Barq’s interrogation is an essential step in the probe.
“This is a procedural measure since Barq is a named accused. We are following all legal protocols as per Allahabad High Court directives,” said Bishnoi. He emphasized the need to examine Barq’s communications, statements, and the affidavit he submitted in court. Earlier, Barq had sought relief from arrest, which was temporarily granted by the Allahabad High Court.
The violence erupted during a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, a historic structure in Sambhal. The survey was part of a dispute over claims that the mosque was built over an ancient Hindu temple, leading to heightened tensions. The aftermath saw multiple FIRs filed under various IPC sections, including unlawful assembly, rioting, obstruction of public servants, and promoting enmity between religious groups.
Barq, a first-time MP and grandson of veteran leader Shafiqur Rahman Barq, has been named in the case alongside Sohail Mahmood, son of a local MLA. The FIR includes charges of rioting with deadly weapons and causing significant damage. So far, 79 individuals have been arrested, all of whom remain in jail.
Meanwhile, Public Works Department (PWD) officials inspected Barq’s residence on Monday, citing unauthorized construction. A case regarding the alleged violation has been filed in the local sub-divisional magistrate’s (SDM) court.
The Sambhal unrest has deepened religious and political tensions, as the town is considered by some as the future birthplace of Kalki, the 10th avatar of Vishnu. The Shahi Jama Masjid remains at the center of the controversy, with petitions alleging it was built over a razed Hindu temple.
As the investigation unfolds, legal proceedings against Zia-Ur Rahman Barq and other accused individuals continue to be closely monitored.
