Sambhal Death Toll Increases To 4, “Victims Were Shot From Close Range”

The death toll from the violence in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal has climbed to five, with police confirming that the victims were shot at close range.

Tensions erupted after a controversial survey of the Mughal-era Jama Masjid turned into a full-blown clash between locals and law enforcement. Internet services have been suspended in Sambhal tehsil, and schools remain shut.

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The unrest began during a court-ordered survey, led by an Advocate Commissioner, to investigate claims that the mosque was built on a demolished Hindu temple. Crowds gathered near the mosque to protest, escalating into stone-pelting and arson. More than ten vehicles were torched as the mob swelled to over a thousand people. The police responded with tear gas, resulting in injuries to over 30 officers.

Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed the deaths of three individuals—Naeem, Bilal, and Nauman—adding that police officials, including the superintendent’s gunner, were among the injured. The fourth death was reported hours later.

The controversy surrounding the mosque survey has deep roots, with petitioners citing historical texts like Baburnamah to claim the site’s Hindu origins. Critics argue the survey flouts the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which preserves the religious character of places as they existed in 1947.

Congress leader Pawan Khera accused the BJP government of inciting communal hatred, calling the violence part of a “well-planned conspiracy.” He also criticised Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for fostering divisions between communities.

Congress has also appealed to the people of Sambhal to recognise the politics of hatred, maintain mutual unity, amity and harmony, and take steps to protect their rights in a legal manner.

Meanwhile, the BJP strongly condemned the stone-pelting and warned that those attempting to disrupt law and order will face strict action.

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Responding to the incident, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said: “Another serious incident has happened in Sambhal. The survey was already done but the survey team was deliberately sent again in the morning so that the atmosphere gets spoiled and no one can discuss the elections. Information is being received that many people have been hurt, many people are injured and a young man has lost his life. When the survey of the mosque had already been done, why should this government conduct a survey again, that too without any preparation…What happened in Sambhal was done by the BJP government administration so that a discussion cannot be held on the business of elections and the dishonesty in elections…”