Sambhal Violence: Chaos broke out in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh this morning when a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Jama Masjid led to violent clashes between locals and police, leaving 3 people dead. The mosque is at the center of a controversial legal battle over claims that it was built on the site of a Hindu temple. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has leveled serious allegations against the BJP over the violence during the mosque survey in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. He said the incident was part of a conspiracy by the state government and administration to divert attention from election issues. Akhilesh claims the BJP is deliberately creating chaos so that there is no discussion on the rigging in the by-election.

Tension increased during the mosque survey in Sambhal

Tensions escalated during the second survey of a Mughal-era mosque in Sambhal district, forcing the police to use tear gas and force. The situation worsened after locals allegedly pelted stones. Akhilesh Yadav questioned why a second survey was needed when one had already been conducted. He called it an “unprepared and sentiment-provoking” move.

Allegations related to election results

Linking this incident to the by-election results, Akhilesh Yadav said that this is an attempt by the BJP to divert attention from "electoral malpractice". He said that the police and administration did not work impartially and tried to influence the electoral process. In the by-election, the SP could win only two seats, while the BJP and its allies won seven seats. Yadav raised questions on the role of the administration after these results.

Warning to administration and BJP

Akhilesh Yadav warned that such incidents will not only increase tension in the society but will also weaken the democratic process. He demanded the state government to conduct an impartial investigation into the matter and reconsider the decisions taken without hearing both the sides. Also, Yadav appealed to his party supporters to maintain restraint and assured them to raise their voices strongly against electoral rigging. This incident has given rise to a new debate in the politics of Uttar Pradesh. It will be interesting to see what action the administration and the BJP take on this matter and what answer they give to these allegations of Akhilesh Yadav.