Uttar Pradesh Police Deny Permission For ‘Neja Mela’ In Sambhal: ‘Not Right To Commemorate A Robber’
Uttar Pradesh authorities have denied permission for the annual "Neja Mela" due to objections over its commemoration of Syed Salar Masud Ghazi, who is associated with invasions and temple destruction.
The Uttar Pradesh administration has refused to grant permission for the annual ‘Neja Mela’ in Sambhal, citing concerns over its historical context and objections raised by sections of society. As part of the restrictions, the police on Tuesday denied permission for the installation of the traditional green flag at the mela ground.
The ‘Neja Mela,’ which is held annually in memory of Syed Salar Masud Ghazi, traditionally begins with the installation of a 30-foot pole bearing a green flag. However, authorities have now prohibited this ritual, stating that it is inappropriate to commemorate figures linked to invasions and destruction, news agency IANS reported.
“This is a wrong tradition, and it is not right to continue with such practices. People have been informed that following such traditions does not contribute to development,” said Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shrish Chandra.
Sambhal, UP: ASP Shrish Chandra says, "The tradition in question was inappropriate, and it was not right to continue with such practices. The concerned individuals were informed that progressing with incorrect traditions does not lead to development. Due to this awareness,… pic.twitter.com/j9eav4owK7
— IANS (@ians_india) March 18, 2025
ASP Chandra explained that the fair had been organised in previous years, but objections were raised this time. “Masud Ghazi was the nephew of Mahmud Ghaznavi, the commander who came to India with the intent to loot and kill. Honouring him is not right, and therefore, permission has not been granted,” he added, as quoted by IANS.
The officer further stated that people have pointed out that Ghazi Salar was responsible for the looting of the Somnath Temple and the destruction of several other temples. “It is not right to commemorate a robber and murderer. This decision has been made keeping law and order in mind,” he said.
Security has been heightened in the area to prevent any unrest. “Forces have been deployed and instructions have been given to stop such illegal acts,” ASP Chandra added, warning that legal action would be taken against those spreading misinformation.
Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh: Amid the Neja Mela cancellation and the Nagpur incident, Sambhal police remain on high alert. ASP Shrish Chandra and CO Anuj Chaudhary led a flag march with RRF personnel, PAC forces, and heavy police deployment to ensure security pic.twitter.com/yL5l7sf7JJ
— IANS (@ians_india) March 18, 2025
UP Govt Blocking ‘Neja Mela’ in Sambhal Sparks Mixed Reactions Among Locals
While some residents expressed disappointment over the cancellation, others supported the move.
According to IANS, Wasim, a resident of Sambhal, remarked, “It is the government’s call. They did not allow the flag to be installed. This mela has been held for hundreds of years, and we do not even know much about the Somnath Temple incident.”
Another local, Shahzad Alam, said, “The administration would know why this is happening, or the members of the Neja Committee can clarify. I heard that the shield is not being placed today. I have seen this fair being organised for years, but I never heard about any connection between the Neja Mela and the destruction of the Somnath Temple. This mela is celebrated because Syed Salar Masud won the war against Prithviraj Chauhan.”
However, some residents welcomed the ban. Sanjay, another local, stated, “This decision is right and should have been taken earlier. Mahmud Ghaznavi destroyed our civilisation, and this mela is celebrated in honour of Masud Ghazi, who looted Sambhal and Bahraich. It is good that such traditions are being abolished.”
Echoing a similar sentiment, Ashok Kumar said, “The Neja Mela was stopped after Covid. Masud Ghazi was a robber and murderer. He deceitfully killed Prithviraj Chauhan’s son. It is good that this event has been abolished.”
Authorities are also keeping a close watch on social media. “We are closely monitoring social media for any misinformation. Strict action will be taken against anyone trying to disrupt peace,” ASP Chandra warned, as per IANS.
The police have also informed organisers that legal action will be taken against any attempts to hold the event despite the ban.
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