New Delhi: The traffic on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway near the Ghazipur border was severely hindered due to intensified security measures in anticipation of Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhis visit to Sambhal, a district recently marred by violence. The situation escalated as Congress supporters began to gather, further exacerbating the congestion on this key route. But after serious tussle between congress leaders and police, Rahul Gandhi reluctentaly decided to return.On the information of Congress leader Rahul Gandhis visit to Sambhal, ASP Vineet Bhatnagar gave a statement saying, Rahul Gandhi will have to take permission to go to Sambhal. If an attempt is made to go without permission, he will be stoppedUP पुलिस ने राहुल गांधी और प्रियंका गांधी को गाजीपुर बॉर्डर से वापस दिल्ली की तरफ भेजा। उन्हें संभल जाने की परमिशन नहीं मिली। पुलिस रोड पर बेरिकेड्स लगाकर डटी रही। तमाम कोशिशों के बावजूद दोनों नेता आगे नहीं बढ़ पाए और लौट गए हैं। #Sambhal pic.twitter.com/tAG20sIKK3— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) December 4, 2024Gandhis Stopped at Ghazipur BorderAs the Congress delegation made its way towards Sambhal, they were halted at the Ghazipur border. Indirapuram Assistant Commissioner of Police Swatantra Kumar Singh stated, We do not have any such command as of now, regarding whether they would be stopped by police. He emphasized that his orders were strictly to maintain security in the area.Concerns Over Violence in SambhalThe planned visit comes in the wake of violent clashes in Sambhal that erupted on November 24 during a court-ordered survey of a mosque. These disturbances have led to prohibitory orders being enforced, which include a ban on outsiders entering the district until December 10. Notably, several Samajwadi Party MPs had also been prevented from entering Sambhal last week due to these restrictions. Authorities Urge Police Action Against Congress LeadersSambhal District Magistrate Rajendra Pensiya has proactively reached out to police officials in neighboring districts, urging them to intercept Rahul Gandhi and his delegation at their borders, citing the communal sensitivity of the area. In a letter to local police commissioners, he expressed concerns about potential unrest stemming from their visit. Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar reiterated that if the Congress delegation attempted to enter, they would be served notice under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), which prohibits gatherings of more than five people in sensitive areas.Congress Leaders Demand AccessUttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai expressed determination regarding their visit, stating, We will insist that they allow at least four people. If stopped, we will push for allowing Rahul ji, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra ji, UP in-charge Avinash Pande ji and myself to enter. This reflects a broader sentiment within the party that their leaders should have the right to assess conditions on the ground directly.Background of Violence in SambhalThe unrest in Sambhal traces back to November 19 when a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid was conducted following claims that it was previously a site for a temple. The violence that ensued during a subsequent survey resulted in four fatalities and numerous injuries, raising alarms about communal tensions in the region. Gandhis Itinerary and Purpose of VisitRahul Gandhis itinerary included meeting with families affected by the violence before returning to Delhi later in the day. This visit is seen as an essential step for him as Leader of Opposition to address pressing issues within Parliament regarding communal harmony and justice for victims. Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi navigate significant roadblocks on their journey to Sambhal, their attempt highlights ongoing political tensions and concerns over security in regions affected by communal violence.
