Zia Ur Rehman Barq Sambhal Violence: UP Police To Serve Notice to SP MP
The Uttar Pradesh Police are set to issue a notice to Samajwadi Party (SP) MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq in connection with the Zia Ur Rehman Barq Sambhal violence case that occurred in November 2023. The incident took place during a court-mandated survey at the Shahi Jama Masjid in the Kot Garvi area of Sambhal, resulting in the deaths of four civilians and injuries to multiple police personnel.
Sambhal Violence Background
The Zia Ur Rehman Barq Sambhal violence erupted on November 24 last year when tensions escalated during a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. The survey had been ordered by the court based on a petition alleging that the mosque was constructed over a demolished Hindu temple during the Mughal era. The confrontation between protestors and law enforcement spiraled out of control, turning violent and fatal.
UP Police to Question MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq
Sambhal Superintendent of Police (SP) Krishan Kumar Bishnoi confirmed on Monday that a legal notice will be issued to Zia Ur Rehman Barq as part of the ongoing investigation. The SP emphasized that this action is in compliance with the directives issued by the Hon’ble High Court.
“In continuation of the guidelines of the Honorable High Court, the investigating officer will issue notice to the MP and he will be requested to join the investigation,” said Bishnoi.
As Zia Ur Rehman Barq is a named accused in the case, police officials believe his testimony is vital to understanding the circumstances and motivations behind the violence.
Significance of Barq’s Statement
According to the SP, Zia Ur Rehman Barq’s interactions and communications with other individuals involved in the events leading up to the Zia Ur Rehman Barq Sambhal violence are a critical part of the investigation. Bishnoi stated that the authenticity and content of Barq’s court affidavit will also play a key role in determining legal accountability.
“What he talked to other people, all this is important in the investigation. The investigation will depend on what their statement is and what kind of affidavit was given by them in the honourable court,” the SP added.
Increased Security and Flag Marches
In response to the renewed focus on the case and to maintain public order, Sambhal police carried out a flag march on Monday in areas under Kotwali and Nakhasa police stations. This came after the recent arrest of Zafar Ali, the Sadar of Shahi Jama Masjid, on Sunday.
The flag march, led by Additional Superintendent of Police Shrish Chandra, was aimed at showing police readiness and maintaining peace amid the tense political climate surrounding the Zia Ur Rehman Barq Sambhal violence case.
Political and Legal Ramifications
The developments in the Zia Ur Rehman Barq Sambhal violence probe could have significant political implications, particularly for the Samajwadi Party and its representatives. Barq, being a high-profile political figure in the region, is now at the center of a sensitive communal and legal issue. His cooperation with the investigation is expected to influence the pace and direction of the proceedings.
Furthermore, the state’s legal machinery appears determined to follow the High Court’s orders closely, underlining the seriousness with which the case is being pursued.
What’s Next in the Investigation
As the UP Police prepares to formally summon Zia Ur Rehman Barq, all eyes are now on how the SP MP will respond. With rising tensions and a politically charged atmosphere, the coming weeks could see more high-profile names involved in the inquiry.
The case is not just a legal battle anymore — it is a test of transparency, political accountability, and communal harmony. The administration’s next steps in the Zia Ur Rehman Barq Sambhal violence case will likely set a precedent for how similar communal incidents are handled in the future.
