Washington, December 4, 2024: Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and his sister Priyanka Gandhi were stopped by the police at the Ghazipur border while en route to the violence-affected Sambhal district in Uttar Pradesh. The Gandhis were attempting to visit the region amidst heightened tensions following violent clashes between local Muslim groups and other communities. The conflict was sparked by a survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid, which some claim was originally a Hindu temple.
Upon reaching the Ghazipur border, the Gandhis’ convoy encountered significant disruptions with barricades blocking their path. Clashes broke out between Congress workers and the police, as Congress supporters attempted to scale the barricades in protest. This led to major traffic jams on the busy Delhi-Meerut Expressway.
Sambhal district had been placed under restrictions due to the sensitive nature of the situation, with prohibitory orders in effect until December 10, barring outsiders from entering. Despite these restrictions, Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi insisted on visiting the region to assess the situation. Authorities had already issued warnings against any movement, with multiple districts instructed to closely monitor their travels and prevent further escalation.
