Akhilesh Yadav Accuses BJP of Conspiracy in Sambhal Mosque Violence, Demands Action in Lok Sabha
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has accused the BJP of orchestrating the violence in Sambhal during a court-ordered survey of a mosque.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Yadav labeled the incident a “well-planned conspiracy” and demanded accountability from the police and administration. The violence left five people dead, sparking outrage across political lines.
Allegations of Conspiracy and Administrative Failure
Addressing the Lok Sabha, Akhilesh Yadav said, “The incident that took place in Sambhal was a well-planned conspiracy… Bypolls were supposed to be held in Uttar Pradesh on November 13, but it was postponed to November 20… A murder case should be filed against the police and the administration. This is a fight between Delhi and Lucknow.”
The unrest in Sambhal erupted during protests against a survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid, ordered after claims that the mosque was built on the ruins of a Hindu temple.
By highlighting the rapid issuance of the survey order and questioning its necessity, Yadav criticized the government’s role in escalating tensions.
The Sequence of Events Leading to Violence
The Sambhal incident unfolded in a series of controversial actions. Akhilesh Yadav explained, “On November 19, a survey was conducted, and the report was to be given to the court. On November 24, another survey was conducted, during which people gathered to find out the reason.
The Circle Officer abused the people gathered there and resorted to lathicharge. After this, police opened fire, during which dozens were injured and five were killed.”
The violence sparked by these events has left many questioning the role of law enforcement and the administration in managing such sensitive matters.
BJP’s Policies Threaten Harmony, Says Yadav
Tearing into the BJP, Akhilesh Yadav accused the party of undermining communal harmony through its actions. “The BJP is constantly talking about excavations… it will one day destroy the brotherhood and harmony of the country. The BJP does not believe in the Constitution,” he said.
Yadav also pointed to larger systemic issues, stating, “Whatever happened in Sambhal and the reports coming from various places clearly suggest that these incidents are part of a large-scale strategy and conspiracy.”
He criticized the BJP government for diverting attention from pressing issues like inflation and unemployment by fostering division.
Supreme Court Intervenes Amid Political Tensions
The Supreme Court has stepped in to address the volatile situation in Sambhal. On Friday, the apex court directed the Uttar Pradesh government to maintain peace and halted further surveys of the Shahi Jama Masjid until January 8.
The mosque committee has been advised to appeal the survey order in the Allahabad High Court.
The court emphasized maintaining confidentiality regarding the survey findings. “We hope and trust the trial court would not take any further steps in the matter until the high court takes up the proceedings in relation to the matter and passes suitable orders,” stated the bench.
A Call for Justice and Compensation
Demanding justice for the victims, Yadav proposed strict action against those responsible for the violence. He stated, “A murder case should be filed against the police and administration, and they should be suspended so people can get justice.”
The Samajwadi Party announced ₹5 lakh compensation for each family of the deceased, while urging the Uttar Pradesh government to contribute an additional ₹25 lakh per family.
Political Fallout and Broader Implications
The Sambhal violence has become a major political flashpoint, with opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticizing the BJP-led state government.
Akhilesh Yadav highlighted similar tensions brewing in Rajasthan, warning of the dangers of politicizing religious disputes.
Despite these challenges, the Supreme Court’s intervention has brought temporary relief, with a three-member panel now investigating the riots.
