Lucknow: Acting tough against rioters, the Uttar Pradesh govt has decided to put up posters of individuals accused of indulging in violence and stone-pelting in Sambhal on Nov 24.
The govt is planning to recover damages, caused during the unrest, from rioters. Police are also likely to announce rewards on the arrest of the accused.
Violence had erupted in Sambhal over the survey of Jama Masjid by a court-appointed lawyers' commission leading to the death of four persons and injuries to several others, including policemen.
While the situation is gradually returning to normal, police are making efforts to arrest the accused.
So far, police have identified 100 people who indulged in stone-pelting and arrested 27, including two women. A total of 12 FIRs were lodged.
Meanwhile, a magisterial inquiry into the incident has also been initiated. The state govt reiterated its commitment to holding perpetrators accountable, in line with its previously issued ordinance on recovery of damages and publicising the identity of the offenders.
The identification was conducted using CCTV footage and local surveillance.
Those arrested are of 14-72 years of age and face serious charges. Photographs and information about the accused were shared with district officials.
A senior officer said that the Uttar Pradesh Recovery of Damages to Public and Private Property Act, 2020, was introduced in the aftermath of anti-CAA protests to make those responsible for loss of life or injury during riots, strikes, bandhs, public commotion, or protests, liable to pay compensation to victims or their family members.
Sources said that residents from areas like Shahi Jama Masjid, Nakhasa, and Hindu Pura Kheda were primarily involved in stone-pelting. Over two dozen people are in custody for questioning. FIRs were filed based on complaints from the families of four deceased persons.
In one FIR, police have named MP Zia-ur-Rahman Barq and the local MLA's son, Suhail Iqbal, as prime accused, alleging that they incited violence and attacked police with intent to kill.
Violence had escalated when a court-ordered survey team was pelted with stones by an agitated mob. Police used tear gas and force to disperse the crowd, which engaged in arson. Several officers, including the superintendent of police, were injured in the clashes.