Sambhal: The three-member judicial commission formed to investigate the violence that erupted on November 24 in Sambhal arrived in the city on Sunday.
The panel will examine the circumstances leading to the riot, conduct a detailed review of the current situation, and investigate the stone-pelting incident and the attack on the police.
Ahead of their visit, security in the city was heightened. On Saturday, the commission members met with Moradabad Commissioner Anjaneya Kumar Singh to gather information about the incident.
The Uttar Pradesh government, under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, ordered a judicial inquiry into the violence. The three-member panel, established on November 28 through a Home Department notification, is led by retired High Court judge Devendra Kumar Arora. The other members are retired IAS officer Amit Mohan Prasad and former IPS officer Arvind Kumar Jain. The commission has been given two months to submit its report, with any extensions requiring government approval.
The violence occurred after a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, initiated due to a petition claiming the presence of a Harihar temple at the site. The clashes on November 24 led to four deaths and numerous injuries.
The survey report, initially due on Friday, was delayed as Court Commissioner Ramesh Chandra Raghav requested an additional 10 days to complete it. The report is now expected by December 8, with the next hearing scheduled for January 8.
The Supreme Court intervened, instructing the trial court to halt proceedings and emphasizing the need to maintain peace and harmony. The mosque committee was advised to approach the appropriate forum to challenge the district court's survey order.
A significant police presence was maintained around the Shahi Jama Masjid, especially during Friday prayers, to ensure order. The situation in Sambhal remains calm, with normal activities resuming. However, internet services are still suspended, and entry for outsiders is restricted.
The police continue to enforce strict surveillance at sensitive locations and have been directed to act swiftly against any suspicious activities or potential disturbances.
With IANS inputs