Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were stopped at the Delhi-UP border on Wednesday as they attempted to visit violence-hit Sambhal. The incident led to traffic congestion, prompting commuters to raise slogans against the Congress leaders, with some scuffling with party workers on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway.
Key Developments:
- Traffic Chaos and Public Outcry:
The barricading at Ghazipur border caused significant traffic delays, leading frustrated commuters to clash with Congress workers. One commuter expressed frustration, saying, “Why does the public have to suffer?” - Rahul Gandhi’s Statement:
Gandhi criticized the authorities for denying his visit, stating that it violated his constitutional rights as the Leader of Opposition (LoP). He said,
“We are trying to go to Sambhal, but the police are refusing. This is against the rights of the LoP and the Constitution. We want to meet the people and see what happened there. This is the India to end Ambedkar’s Constitution. We will keep fighting.” - Priyanka Gandhi’s Remarks:
Priyanka Gandhi also condemned the denial, questioning Uttar Pradesh’s governance. She remarked,
“Rahul Gandhi has constitutional rights, and he cannot be stopped like this. Maybe the situation in Uttar Pradesh is such that they cannot handle even this much.” - Congress Leadership’s Response:
Congress MP KC Venugopal highlighted that authorities had requested them to postpone their visit by 4–5 days, which he claimed was a deliberate move to avoid scrutiny. He added,
“Our delegation headed by Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi has been stopped. It is basic humanity to stand by those who have suffered. We are determined to meet the victims’ families.”
Background on Sambhal Violence:
Violence erupted in Sambhal on November 24 during an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) examination of a Mughal-era mosque. The clashes resulted in four fatalities and injuries to both locals and police personnel. The ASI survey followed a court petition claiming the mosque was built on the site of a Harihar temple.