Sambhal: Yogi government launches probe, FIR against fraudulent Waqf land claims
- In Reports
- 06:44 PM, Jan 03, 2025
- Myind Staff
The Uttar Pradesh government has ordered the police to file a case against people who have falsely claimed that a police post near Jama Masjid in Sambhal is being built on Waqf land by forging documents. The Yogi Adityanath government has also instructed a district-wide investigation into all Waqf properties in Sambhal. They have warned that any properties without proper documents will be immediately seized.
The dispute started when Asaduddin Owaisi, the head of AIMIM, claimed that the Waqf board owned the land used for the police outpost. On social media, Owaisi posted,"The police chowki being built near Sambhal's Jama Masjid is on Waqf land, according to records.” District Magistrate Rajendra Pensiya, however, rejected these arguments and affirmed that the site is municipal property and not subject to Waqf authority. The statements are part of a purposeful effort to mislead the public and stir up tensions between communities, according to UP Police. Criminal charges have been brought against those disseminating what authorities refer to as a "false narrative."
A police post is being built on empty land near Jama Masjid to improve local security and maintain a constant police presence. This project became more urgent after violent clashes in November 2023 during a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. The survey was triggered by claims that a historical Harihar temple existed at the site, leading to unrest. The violence resulted in four deaths and several injuries, including those of security officers. The Rapid Action Force (RAF) has been sent to supervise the construction and maintain peace in the area. Senior police officers, including SP Krishnan Kumar Bishnoi, emphasised the importance of these posts in strengthening surveillance, ensuring justice and preventing future disturbances. The Yogi government has mandated a thorough examination of every Waqf property in Sambhal as part of a larger crackdown. Officials have been warned that properties without legal verification would be seized and have been told to check ownership documents. Long-standing claims of improper possession of public and disputed properties under the pretence of Waqf ownership are allegedly being addressed by this decree.
Along with investigating the Waqf property, district authorities are carrying out anti-encroachment operations in Sambhal. As part of water conservation efforts, 19 wells are being reopened and 68 sacred sites, known as Dev Tirtha, are being secured. Smart meters and CCTV cameras are also being set up to enhance security. The police response has become stronger following last month's violence. A total of 50 people have been arrested, including Adnan, who was caught in Delhi's Batla House. Adnan and his associates are accused of planning the violence. Additionally, the district administration is putting CCTV cameras and smart meters in strategic locations to improve security and keep an eye on public places. "Temporary encroachments are being cleared, and permanent ones are being addressed through legal notices and cooperation from local residents," District Magistrate Pensiya said.
On December 28, the Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) in Sambhal, Shrish Chandra, stated that they are collecting information about who was responsible for the incident and will take action against those who provided shelter to those involved.
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