UP: FIR filed against Sambhal Jama Masjid Committee Chief for violating prohibitory orders during roadshow

The president of the Shahi Jama Masjid Management Committee in Sambhal, along with several others, has been booked for allegedly violating prohibitory orders by taking out a celebratory procession after his release from jail.

The police registered the case on Wednesday following a complaint by Sub-Inspector Ashish Tomar at the Sambhal Kotwali Police Station.

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According to a police statement, an FIR has been filed against Zafar Ali, the committee’s president, along with individuals identified as Sarfaraz, Tahir, Haider, and 50 to 60 unidentified persons. They are accused of organising a 40-km-long roadshow from Moradabad to Sambhal on August 1 to celebrate Ali’s release from Moradabad jail.

Zafar Ali was imprisoned in connection with the violence that broke out last year during a survey of the Mughal-era Jama Masjid in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh. The violence, which occurred on November 24, 2024, resulted in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to 29 police personnel. FIRs were previously registered against Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq, Zafar Ali, and 2,750 unidentified individuals concerning the incident.

Following Ali’s release, a large procession was reportedly organised, during which flower petals were showered on the convoy and multiple welcome events were held along the route. The police took suo motu cognizance after videos of the roadshow went viral on social media and initiated legal action against those involved.

Authorities have reiterated that such public gatherings violate existing prohibitory orders in the area, and strict action will be taken against those who breach the law.