Lucknow: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the Uttar Pradesh Police has submitted a chargesheet exceeding 4,000 pages in connection with six out of the 12 cases related to the Sambhal violence that erupted on November 24, 2024, during the ASI’s examination of the Mughal-era mosque.
The violence led to the deaths of four individuals and injuries to several officials and locals.
📝 Key Highlights of the Chargesheet:
🔎 Accused and Arrests:
- 159 total accused in the case.
- 80 individuals arrested; 79 still at large.
💣 Weapons Seized:
- Arms recovered from the site and other locations were manufactured in the UK, USA, Germany, and Czechoslovakia.
- Seizures include:
- 1️⃣ 09 MM pistol & magazine
- 3️⃣ 32 MM pistols & 1 magazine
- 3️⃣ 12-bore country-made guns
- 5️⃣ live 09 MM cartridges
- Multiple other cartridges of varying calibres
🚓 Property Damage:
- Attempted arson on a station in-charge’s bike (saved) and complete destruction of a government vehicle.
- 23 people charged in this specific case.
🗣️ Official Statements:
👮♂️ SP Sambhal, Krishna Kumar Bishnoi:
“So far, 12 cases have been registered regarding the violence, with chargesheets filed in six cases. The SIT is working diligently to ensure justice.”
🗣️ UP Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya:
“It is commendable that the chargesheet has been filed. The police have worked hard, and I trust they will continue their efforts to maintain law and order.”
📅 Background:
The Sambhal violence erupted during the Archaeological Survey of India’s (ASI) examination of the Mughal-era mosque, sparking clashes between officials and locals.
Authorities acted promptly to restore peace and launched an extensive investigation under the SIT.
⚖️ Next Steps:
🔔 Prosecution proceedings are set to begin soon.
🔔 Efforts underway to apprehend remaining accused.
🔔 SIT continues to investigate the remaining six cases.
✅ With this comprehensive chargesheet, authorities reaffirm their commitment to ensuring accountability and upholding law and order in Uttar Pradesh.