– Akhilesh Tripathi
Lucknow: Ziaur Rahman Barq, MP from Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, finds himself embroiled in escalating challenges, with one issue following another. The series of troubles has fuelled speculation that efforts are underway to politically sideline him, much like what reportedly happened to Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Azam Khan.
Before his election as MP from Sambhal, Barq served as an MLA for Kundarki assembly seat in Moradabad district. His political lineage includes his grandfather, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman Barq, former MP from Sambhal. After Dr. Shafiqur Rahman’s demise during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the SP fielded Ziaur Rahman Barq as its candidate, leading to his victory.
Following his election, a by-election was held for the Kundarki assembly seat, where BJP clinched a victory after nearly four decades. This election was marred by allegations of irregularities, with claims that voters were prevented from casting their votes. The SP candidate demanded the Election Commission annul the results, accusing the BJP, local administration, and police of poll misconduct. Despite complaints and subsequent action against the police, the BJP secured the win, drawing widespread criticism.
This criticism reportedly led to UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s ire against Barq. Allegations suggest that Adityanath devised a strategy to politically neutralise the MP.
On November 24, a resurvey of Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal triggered chaos and violence, resulting in five deaths. Authorities accused several individuals, including Barq, registering an FIR against him despite his reported presence in Bengaluru at the time. The SP escalated the matter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, demanding accountability from the UP government. This move further strained relations, reportedly intensifying efforts to sideline Barq politically.
Subsequent actions against Barq included reopening a vehicle accident case, allegations of electricity theft resulting in a ₹1.91 crore fine, and notices regarding an allegedly unauthorised house in Sambhal. Despite Barq requesting extensions to address these issues, notices were escalated, culminating in threats of direct action.
Sambhal District Magistrate Dr. Rajendra Pensiya stated, “No further notices will be issued; action will be taken directly.” Reports indicate plans to deploy bulldozers against Barq’s residence, potentially exacerbating tensions.
Observers draw parallels between Barq’s situation and that of Azam Khan, another SP leader subjected to multiple legal cases and administrative actions. The campaign against Barq is reportedly led by Moradabad Division Commissioner Anjaneya Kumar Singh, who previously played a key role in neutralising Khan’s political influence. Singh, considered close to Adityanath, has faced complaints over his controversial actions, yet remains in a prominent administrative role in UP.
The consistent legal and administrative measures against Barq suggest a well-orchestrated campaign to dismantle his political career. Critics argue that these actions reflect a deliberate strategy to eliminate him from the political arena, with Singh at the helm of these efforts.
As tensions escalate, many see the developments as part of a broader narrative of political retribution, underscoring the precariousness of dissent in the current political climate. The situation continues to draw significant attention, with further actions likely to shape the region’s political landscape.
