SIT Quizzes Shahi Jama Masjid Chief Zafar Ali Over Sambhal Violence
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Uttar Pradesh Police questioned Shahi Jama Masjid President Zafar Ali on Sunday over the November 2024 violence in Sambhal that killed four during a mosque survey, as his brother raised concerns of an impending arrest.
On March 23, 2025, the SIT took Zafar Ali, president of Sambhal’s Shahi Jama Masjid, into custody for questioning. Police sources said Ali was the first to learn of the court-ordered survey on November 24, 2024, which sparked violent protests.
The unrest began when a survey team arrived at the Mughal-era mosque early on November 24. Locals gathered, leading to clashes with police, who used tear gas as protesters threw stones and set vehicles ablaze, resulting in four deaths.
Advocate Mohammad Tahir, Ali’s brother, claimed, “The SIT plans to arrest my brother soon.” He expressed worry over the interrogation, amid heightened security measures in Sambhal to maintain order.
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The violence stems from a petition alleging the Shahi Jama Masjid was built on the site of the historic Harihar Temple. The court-ordered survey aimed to investigate these claims, intensifying tensions in the region.
Seven FIRs filed post-violence named Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq and SP MLA Iqbal Mehmood’s son Sohail Iqbal as accused. Police allege Barq incited the mob to disrupt communal harmony for political gain.
The November 24 clashes injured several, including police personnel, as protesters resisted the survey. The situation escalated rapidly, with authorities struggling to restore calm in the sensitive area.
The SIT’s questioning of Zafar Ali may lead to further action, with his brother anticipating an arrest. The investigation continues to unravel the triggers of the violence, while Sambhal remains under close watch.
