SDPI Demands Immediate and Unconditional Release of Zafar Ali

The Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) strongly condemns the arbitrary and politically motivated arrest of Zafar Ali, the chairperson of the Shahi Jama Masjid managing committee in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. His arrest, just before he was scheduled to testify before the judicial commission investigating the November 2024 violence, is a blatant attempt to obstruct justice and silence a crucial witness.

The UP government’s actions reflect a dangerous pattern of targeting and intimidating those who dare to speak the truth. This move raises serious concerns about the fairness and credibility of the judicial inquiry into the violence that erupted following the controversial court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. Instead of ensuring an impartial investigation, the state authorities are resorting to oppressive tactics to suppress voices that challenge their narrative.

The SDPI condemns this undemocratic act in the strongest terms and demands:

1. Immediate and unconditional release of Zafar Ali, ensuring his right to testify before the judicial commission without fear or intimidation.

2. A fair and transparent investigation into the November 2024 violence, free from political and communal bias.

3. Accountability of law enforcement agencies that are being misused to harass and detain individuals from the minority community under false pretexts.

4. Strict adherence to the Places of Worship Act, 1991, to prevent the unjust targeting of religious institutions and the erosion of secularism in India.

The SDPI stands in solidarity with the people of Sambhal and all those fighting for justice against state repression. We call upon civil society, human rights organizations, and the judiciary to intervene and prevent the misuse of power against innocent citizens.

Mohammad Shafi
National Vice President
Social Democratic Party of India