New Delhi: The Uttar Pradesh government has reopened the investigation into the 1978 Sambhal riots. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed the police to re-examine case files and submit a comprehensive report within one week. The directive, issued through a letter from the Deputy Secretary of the Home (Police) Department, assigns an Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) to lead the inquiry. Additionally, the Superintendent of Police (SP) has sought the assistance of an administrative officer, to be appointed by the District Magistrate (DM).
As per a Hindustan Times report, the decision follows a letter from Sambhal SP KK Bishnoi to District Officer Dr. Rajendra Pensia, highlighting a request by UP Legislative Council member Shrichandra Sharma for an investigation into the riots. The UP Home Department officially approved the probe, marking a fresh attempt to address the tragic communal violence that occurred nearly five decades ago.
The 1978 Sambhal riots were characterised by widespread arson, brutal killings, and the forced displacement of Hindu families. Survivors recount the traumatic loss of lives and the mass exodus of families fleeing for safety.
This renewed investigation coincides with the reopening of the Kartik Mahadev Temple in Sambhal, which had remained closed for 46 years. The temple’s reopening, following tensions during a November 24, 2024, survey at the Shahi Jama Masjid, has reignited discussions about the 1978 riots.
