Sambhal Clashes: Tensions continue to mount in Uttar Pradesh as fresh political controversy was sparked over the recent violence during the Shahi Jama Masjid survey. The issue escalated on Monday after a controversial poster, targeting the BJP-led Yogi Adityanath government, was put up in Prayagraj by the Samajwadi Party’s student wing.
The poster, placed at Subhash Chowk in the Civil Lines area on Monday evening, accused the BJP of destroying democracy. It read, "The BJP’s election mantra is not democracy but ‘gun-tantra’ (rule of the gun)." Another line on the poster stated, "The Sultan is enraged with the power of sovereignty; India is burning in the fire of communalism.” The poster also featured an image of the violence in Sambhal, labelling it as "a glimpse of BJP’s dictatorial attitude".
Police Action and Public Reaction
The poster was swiftly removed by the police, who deemed it objectionable. The authorities seized it and announced that a thorough investigation would be carried out and strict action would be taken. Earlier in the day, Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who is in Delhi to attend the Parliament's Winter Session, "The incident in Sambhal was deliberately carried out so that their rigging and theft in the elections cannot be caught."
Security Heightened Amid Tensions
Following the violence in Sambhal, the Prayagraj police are on high alert. Patrolling has been intensified in areas with mixed populations, both in the city and rural regions. Authorities have urged citizens to refrain from falling for rumours or provocative statements. Additionally, intelligence networks have been activated to monitor and address potential disturbances.
Officials have issued a stern warning that anyone found spreading misinformation or attempting to incite unrest will face strict action.
The developments come at a sensitive time, with political parties leveraging the incident for their narratives. The situation remains volatile, and authorities are working to maintain peace and order across the region.