– Akhilesh Tripathi
Lucknow: In Sambhal, Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq and his father, Mamlukur Rahman Barq, have reportedly received death threats, prompting the registration of an FIR and he initiation of a police investigation.
According to a complaint filed by Kamil, the caretaker at the MP’s residence in Deepa Sarai, the incident took place on Thursday at around 4:30 PM. A young man arrived at the residence and inquired about the MP and his father. Upon learning they were not present, the man allegedly issued death threats, accusing them of causing him personal harm and vowing to take their lives.
When Kamil and others objected to the man’s behaviour, he reportedly began hurling abuses before fleeing the scene. Kamil further alleged in his police complaint, “The individual belongs to another community and had previously tried to disrupt the peace at the Jama Masjid on December 20. The MP and his father are in danger from him, and strict action must be taken.”
The police have registered an FIR against an unidentified person based on Kamil’s complaint and have launched an investigation. The officer in-charge of Nakhasa police station confirmed that the case is being handled as a matter involving an unknown suspect.
Reports indicate that the same individual, identified as wearing tilak on his forehead, had attempted to enter the Jama Masjid on December 20, allegedly intending to disturb peace. He was arrested at the time and sent to jail but has since been released on bail.
This case has raised concerns in political circles. Given the gravity of the threats against the MP and his father, police efforts are under intense scrutiny. Investigators are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the MP’s residence and nearby areas and have assured that the perpetrator will be apprehended soon.
However, public criticism is mounting over the perceived inefficiency of law enforcement. Many are questioning, “If an MP’s safety cannot be guaranteed, how can ordinary citizens feel secure?”
Further complicating the situation are concerns about why the police have not yet apprehended the accused despite previously detaining him for a similar incident. Is external pressure hindering their actions?
These unanswered questions cast doubt on the effectiveness of law enforcement in Sambhal. As the delay in arresting the accused continues, public confidence in the police is waning, intensifying scrutiny and pressure on the authorities to resolve the case swiftly.