Supreme Relief: Bail Granted to Four Accused in Sambhal Riots Case

New Delhi: The Supreme Court gave an important verdict in the Sambhal riots case and granted bail to four accused. All these accused were in jail after the violent incident that took place in November 2024. The Allahabad High Court had earlier rejected bail pleas, but the apex court granted the relief after a thorough examination of the facts, evidence and circumstances of the case. The judges clarified that despite their long detention, no concrete evidence was found against these four for their direct involvement in violence.

This decision not only brought relief to the families of the accused but also indicated that it is necessary to speed up the judicial process in riot cases. After the state government receives the copy of the court order, the process of release will start immediately, which can prove helpful in reducing the social tension in Sambhal district. 

When and how did the Sambhal riots break out?

Horrific communal violence broke out during a survey in Sambhal, UP, on 24 November 2024, which made headlines across the country. The incident was related to the court-directed survey of the royal Jama Masjid, which was being carried out by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The crux of the controversy was the claim that a Harihar temple existed earlier in place of the mosque. Local residents started pelting stones at the survey team, in response to which the security forces resorted to lathicharge and firing. Four people were killed in the clash, while dozens were injured. The violence was so intense that shops were burnt, vehicles vandalized and a curfew had to be imposed in the area.

Initial investigation by the police found that it was the result of a well-planned conspiracy, in which rumors were spread through social media. Overall, more than 3,700 named accused were booked, and the National Security Act (NSA) was invoked against many. This incident not only disturbed the peace of Sambhal but also proved to challenge the unity of the country.

Who is Shariq Sata and what was his role?

The police focus is on the alleged mastermind of the riots, Shariq Sata (sometimes called Shariq Kata). Sata is considered a local criminal and radical element who has been indulging in communal incitement over the years. According to the investigating agencies, he masterminded the entire riot—from supplying weapons to instigating the mob. Sata had fled the country to Dubai several years ago, where he is in hiding. Sambhal SP Krishna Kumar Bishnoi recently said that UP Police, CBI and Interpol are jointly trying for his extradition.

Soon a Red Corner Notice will be issued against him, which will intensify the search for him at the international level. Apart from this, the process of attachment of Sata's house in Sambhal has also started. Sata's arrest will not only solve this case but will also prove helpful in preventing such conspiracies in the future. Experts believe that elements like Sata misuse social media and promote polarization, which is a threat to democracy.

What will be the social and political impact of this decision?

The decision of the Supreme Court will have a deep impact on Sambhal and the entire Uttar Pradesh. On one hand, bail has provided justice to the minor accused, which can restore confidence in the minority community. But on the other hand, strict action against big conspirators like Sata sends a message to the majority party that the law is blind. Political parties have reacted—Congress welcomed the verdict, while BJP praised the investigation.

Social activists are now trying to restore peace, which includes interreligious dialogue and stopping rumors. This incident reminds the country that caution should be exercised on sensitive issues like surveys of religious places. Overall, this decision is a symbol of the strength of the justice system, but it is everyone's responsibility to maintain communal harmony. If such incidents are repeated, questions will be raised on the unity of the country.