Sambhal: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference leader and Member of Parliament, Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi, visited Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, on Monday to meet the families of those killed in a police firing incident.
Five Muslim men were shot dead on Sunday during a protest against a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, which some claim was once the site of the Harihar temple.
During his visit, Mehdi spoke to the local community and emphasized that the violence should not be seen as a Hindu-Muslim issue but as a clash between a particular ideology and Muslims.
“My understanding is that this issue is not a Hindu-Muslim issue as some sections might portray it. It is a particular ideology vs Muslims. The violence that occurred in Sambhal was a failure of the State. The locals I spoke to informed me of their brotherhood and bonhomie. They have lived together peacefully for centuries now,” Mehdi said.
He expressed concern over the tense atmosphere in the region, noting that most businesses and homes were shut and the people were living in fear.
“I visited Sambhal yesterday to speak to the families of those killed in the police firing there. While going to the Jama Masjid, which is unfortunately the site of the dispute, I interacted with the locals of the area. Most of the businesses (shops) and even houses in the area were locked and people scared,” Mehdi added.
The MP also urged the state administration to act swiftly in ensuring justice for the victims and prevent further attempts to escalate tensions. “I urge the administration to foil attempts to instigate people and deliver justice to all those who have been wronged in Sambhal,” he said.
The incident, which also saw more than 15 police officers injured, has drawn widespread condemnation. The police PRO was reportedly shot in the foot during the confrorntation.
