New Delhi: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday accused the Uttar Pradesh police of violating his constitutional rights by stopping his convoy at the Ghazipur border during his planned visit to violence-hit Sambhal. Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, asserted that his role entitled him to meet the affected people and assess the situation firsthand.
Speaking at the border, Gandhi expressed his frustration, stating, “As the Leader of the Opposition, it is my constitutional right to visit Sambhal and meet the victims. The police are stopping me and denying this right. I even offered to travel alone with the police, but they rejected that as well. This is not just a denial of my rights but an attack on Ambedkar’s Constitution itself. We will keep fighting.”
Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra echoed her brother’s criticism, emphasizing that his position guaranteed him the right to engage with victims of violence. She remarked, “The police are refusing to allow Rahul Gandhi’s visit despite his willingness to comply with their terms. This raises questions about the state’s ability to maintain law and order.”
Government’s Stance
Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak accused Congress of politicizing the Sambhal violence and defended the police’s decision to block Gandhi’s visit. He said, “Rahul Gandhi’s visit could disrupt the law and order situation. The Sambhal incident is under investigation, and the police have imposed Section 144 to ensure peace. Congress leaders should refrain from actions that could worsen the situation.”
Background on Sambhal Violence
The violence in Sambhal erupted on November 24, after a mob hurled stones at officials surveying a Mughal-era mosque. The survey followed a court order based on claims that a Hindu temple had been demolished for the mosque’s construction. Four people were killed, and several others injured during the clashes.
Pathak added that evidence, including cartridge shells traced to Pakistan, had been recovered from the site, and investigations were ongoing. He reassured the public that those responsible would face strict action.
This incident has ignited a political storm, with Congress criticizing the state government’s handling of the situation and the BJP accusing the opposition of exploiting the violence for political gain.
