Sambhal

Authorities on Wednesday executed attachment proceedings at the residence of Shariq Satta, identified by police as the alleged mastermind behind the Sambhal violence of November 24, 2024. The move follows a court-issued warrant targeting Satta’s movable and immovable assets.

Tensions in Sambhal had escalated earlier when the Shahi Jama Masjid was surveyed on November 19, 2024, amid claims that a Harihar temple had previously existed on the site. During a second survey on November 24, clashes between protesting locals and security forces resulted in four deaths and several injuries.

The attachment operation took place at Satta’s house in Deepa Sarai under Nakhasa police station limits, with heavy police presence. Sambhal Tehsildar Dhirendra Pratap Singh said the action was carried out under Section 84 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, in compliance with court directives against the absconding accused.

Additional Superintendent of Police (North) Kuldeep Singh said teams from four police stations and a platoon of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) were deployed for the proceedings. The authorities are also verifying other properties linked to Satta.

Satta, a resident of Hindupura Kheda, has been declared a proclaimed offender for failing to appear in court. Despite multiple raids, he remains untraceable. Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Bishnoi confirmed that further investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of his assets and identify any associates aiding him.

Described as a notorious auto-lifter involved in large-scale vehicle theft, Satta faces multiple criminal cases related to the Sambhal violence. Police suspect he may have fled abroad to avoid arrest. Authorities continue to monitor potential leads while ensuring the seized property remains under official control.

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The court-directed property attachment is part of broader efforts to hold accountable those allegedly responsible for instigating violence, restore public confidence, and deter further communal unrest in the region.