Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with other senior party leaders, were stopped at the Ghazipur border on Wednesday as they attempted to visit violence-hit Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh. A heavy police force, barricades, and prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) were cited as reasons for preventing their entry.

Why Rahul Gandhi Was Stopped

Prohibitory orders, initially set to expire on Sunday, were extended until December 31 in Sambhal. These orders restrict the entry of outsiders into the district to maintain law and order. Sambhal District Magistrate Rajendra Pensia had issued directives to stop Gandhi at district borders, writing to police officials in Gautam Buddh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Amroha, and Bulandshahr to enforce the restrictions.

Ghaziabad Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Mishra confirmed that the Congress leader was stopped at the Delhi-Meerut Expressway, saying the move was necessary to uphold the administration's prohibitory orders.

Backdrop of the Violence in Sambhal

Tensions erupted in Sambhal on November 19, following a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, amid claims that a Harihar temple once existed on the site.

On November 24, during a second survey, violent clashes broke out between protesters and security personnel, leaving four people dead and many injured. The administration imposed stringent curbs to prevent further unrest, extending the restrictions into December.

Congress Delegation’s Plan

The Congress delegation, led by Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi, included five MPs from Uttar Pradesh. They planned to meet families of those affected by the violence and take stock of the situation in the district. However, their attempt was thwarted at the Ghazipur border, where security was intensified, and they were asked to turn back.

Administration’s Stand

According to police and administrative officials, the situation in Sambhal remains sensitive, warranting the extension of prohibitory orders to ensure peace and stability.

Ajay Kumar Mishra, Ghaziabad Police Commissioner, stated, “We will not permit Rahul Gandhi to proceed to Sambhal due to the prohibitory orders in place. Police have deployed ample force to enforce the directives.”

Congress leaders criticized the move, calling it an "undemocratic attempt to stifle opposition voices." The party accused the administration of evading accountability and failing to address the root causes of the violence in Sambhal. As tensions continue to simmer in Sambhal, the political spotlight remains on the district, with the Congress party vowing to keep the issue alive in its fight for justice for the affected families.