UP: Sambhal administration bans entry of 'outsiders' till 10 December

The Sambhal district administration has extended its prohibition on the entry of outsiders, including social organisations and political representatives, until December 10 to maintain law and order following recent violent clashes between the police and the Muslim community.

The district administration initially imposed a ban on outsiders until December 1 but extended the order to December 10 in light of the continued unrest. Rajendra Pandiya, in a fresh directive, stated that no public representatives, social organisations, or external visitors would be allowed into the district without prior approval from the competent authority.

The extension was announced after a 15-member Samajwadi Party delegation was denied entry, prompting Samajwadi Party (SP) chief, Akhilesh Yadav to attack BJP government.

"Imposing a ban is a failure of the BJP government's governance, administration and government management," the SP chief said on X.

Violence erupted on November 24 after a court-ordered survey at the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid led to clashes, resulting in five deaths and injuries to 20 police personnel.

The BJP has hit back at the SP's criticism, alleging that the violence was instigated by "criminals shielded by the Samajwadi Party."

As the situation remains tense, the administration has called for cooperation from all political parties to ensure peace and stability in the district.