Uttar Pradesh Police allege Shariq Satha played a key role in November’s violent clashes in Sambhal.
The Uttar Pradesh Police have issued a lookout circular for Shariq Satha, a Dubai-based gangster, in connection with the violent clashes that erupted in Sambhal district in November. Authorities allege that Satha was the primary conspirator behind the incidents, which resulted in significant unrest and loss of life.
According to police reports, Satha is accused of supplying weapons from abroad, which contributed to the violent outbreak. The issuance of a lookout circular serves as a mechanism for law enforcement to monitor individuals who may be attempting to leave the country while being wanted for criminal activities.
The violence in Sambhal broke out on November 24 when a group of Muslims protested against a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid located in Chandausi town. This survey was mandated by a trial court in response to a legal suit asserting that the mosque was constructed in 1526 by Mughal ruler Babar on land previously occupied by the centuries-old Shri Hari Har Temple dedicated to Lord Kalki. The survey and the associated tensions led to tragic consequences, with five individuals losing their lives during the unrest.
Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar stated that investigations revealed Satha’s significant involvement in orchestrating the violence. He has been implicated in five criminal cases related to the incident, which includes charges of murder in four of those cases. Reports indicate that Satha, originally from Deepa Sarai in Sambhal, has been operating his criminal network remotely from Dubai, having allegedly fled the country in 2020 using a forged passport.
In the aftermath of the violence, a total of twelve First Information Reports (FIRs) were filed, and a Special Investigation Team was established to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding the clashes. The team has since filed chargesheets in all cases, with legal proceedings already underway in ten of them. During their investigations, authorities uncovered compelling evidence, including the recovery of six empty cartridges used during the violence, one of which was manufactured in Pakistan. This discovery raised suspicions regarding potential international connections that could implicate Satha further in the violence.
As part of the ongoing investigation, more than 100 individuals have been arrested in connection with the Sambhal incidents, including three of Satha’s alleged associates who were apprehended within India. The unfolding situation continues to attract attention, particularly in light of the implications it may have for community relations and law enforcement efforts in the region.
