National Security Act Slapped on Alleged Mastermind of Sambhal Anti-CAA Violence

In a decisive move by authorities, the stringent National Security Act (NSA) has been invoked against Mohammad Iqbal, who is alleged to be the primary instigator behind the violent clashes that rocked Sambhal during protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

The District Magistrate of Sambhal confirmed the invocation of the NSA against Iqbal, who stands accused of orchestrating the widespread violence that erupted on December 19.

This serious legal action underscores the gravity with which the administration views the alleged role of Iqbal in the incidents.

The tumultuous events of that day saw Sambhal plunged into chaos, marked by rampant stone-pelting, acts of arson, and severe disruption of public order. Among the most egregious acts was the setting ablaze of a state bus, a stark symbol of the destructive intent that characterized the protests at their peak.

The National Security Act grants the government extensive powers to detain individuals without charge for up to 12 months, if it believes they pose a threat to national security or public order.

Its application in this case signals the administration's resolve to clamp down on those deemed responsible for inciting unrest and jeopardizing peace within the community.

Beyond the NSA, authorities have also initiated proceedings to attach the properties of 34 individuals, including Mohammad Iqbal, who have been identified for their alleged involvement in the violence.

These measures are part of a broader effort to recover damages to public and private property caused during the protests, reinforcing the message that accountability will be sought for all destructive acts.

This development unfolds against a backdrop of widespread protests that swept across Uttar Pradesh following the enactment of the CAA, with several cities witnessing similar outbreaks of violence.

The invocation of the NSA in Sambhal serves as a potent reminder of the state's determination to maintain law and order and prosecute those who allegedly exploit public demonstrations for unlawful ends.