Sambhal violence: Tensions persist as death toll rises to 4; outsiders' entry barred till November 30

Govt orchestrated riot’ in Sambhal to hide malpractice in bypolls: Akhilesh

- BISWAJEET BANERJEE

Tensions remain high in Sambhal as the death toll from recent violence over a mosque survey rose to four after another person succumbed to injuries. The district administration has suspended internet services and ordered the closure of schools to prevent further unrest.

Moradabad Commissioner Anjaneya Kumar confirmed that the deaths resulted from bullets fired from country-made firearms. "The findings came from the post-mortem reports," he said, adding that a magisterial inquiry would be conducted into all four deaths.

District Magistrate Rajendra Painsiya has announced strict measures to restore order, including barring the entry of outsiders, social organizations, and public representatives into Sambhal until November 30 without prior approval. Educational institutions remain closed as a precaution.

Opposition parties attacked the BJP a day after Sunday's violence, with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accusing the state government of orchestrating a "riot" and Congress leaders Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi claiming the ruling party was sowing discord between Hindus and Muslims.