Indian Muslims: What is coming Next?

Imam in Sambhal Fined Rs 2 Lakh for Using ‘High Decibel’ Loudspeaker

The developments in Sambhal have reignited debates on religious freedoms and the use of state machinery

Team Clarion

NEW DELHI – Uttar Pradesh authorities arrested and fined a local imam for using a loudspeaker at “high decibel” for azan (call to prayers) at the Anar Wali Masjid in the Kot Garvi area of violence-hit Sambhal on Friday, December 13.

The imam, identified as 23-year-old Tahzeeb, has been granted bail. He has also been directed to refrain from similar conduct for the next six months, according to media reports. Sambhal Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra confirmed that the imam was fined Rs 2 lakh as a precautionary measure and granted bail.

The incident occurred in the context of heightened tension in Sambhal after violence erupted last month during a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid in the same area, resulting in several deaths and scores of injuries. The unrest led to increased scrutiny of activities in local mosques, including the use of loudspeakers.

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The fine imposed on Imam Tahzeeb has raised concerns about religious freedoms and the equitable application of such noise control rules across different communities. Local leaders and community members have called for dialogue to address these issues and to ensure that law enforcement actions do not disproportionately target specific groups.

Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, in her maiden speech in the Lok Sabha on Friday also condemned the violence in Sambhal and highlighted the BJP’s alleged role in fuelling unrest.

Families of the violence victims sought justice and support, meeting with Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, in the national capital earlier this week. “We demand accountability for the tragic loss of our loved ones. This is not just about us; it’s about justice for all,” one family member said during the meeting.

Meanwhile, accusations of bias and excessive force have surfaced. Mamlok Ur Rehman, father of Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Burq — a prominent political figure accused in the violence case —claimed, “The police are targeting locals unfairly. Many innocent people have been arrested without proper evidence.”

To date, 40 suspects have been detained in connection with the violence. However, local community leaders have expressed concerns over what they describe as selective targeting and harassment of Muslims in the area.

Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the Uttar Pradesh government led by Yogi Adityanath has constituted a three-member judicial commission to investigate the violence. The panel comprises retired Justice DK Arora, retired IAS officer Amit Mohan Prasad, and former DGPA K Jain.

“The investigation must be impartial and transparent. The victims’ families and the affected community deserve answers,” said an activist following the commission’s announcement.

The developments in Sambhal have reignited debates on religious freedoms and the use of state machinery. Critics argue that actions such as the fine imposed on the mosque’s imam are emblematic of a broader pattern of systemic bias.

“The rules on loudspeakers have been applied selectively, and Muslims are being singled out under the pretext of maintaining law and order,” said a local who preferred to remain anonymous.

Tensions remain high in Sambhal, with police forces maintaining a visible presence. Residents report a climate of fear and mistrust, with many questioning the government’s commitment to safeguarding minority rights.

As the judicial commission begins its inquiry, the affected families, local leaders, and civil society at large await meaningful outcomes. For many, the events in Sambhal are a reminder of the fragile state of communal harmony in India and the challenges faced by marginalised communities.

“Justice must prevail,” urged a family member of one of the deceased, reflecting the sentiment of a community grappling with grief, fear, and uncertainty.

The coming weeks will determine whether the promises of an impartial investigation and restored harmony can be upheld or whether the wounds inflicted by the Sambhal violence will deepen further.

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Indian Muslims: What is coming Next?

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