Imam Tahzeeb of AnarWali Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, was arrested on December 13 for using a loudspeaker for Azan. The arrest came amidst heightened security in the area following recent unrest during a resurvey of Sambhal Jama Masjid.
The local administration and police have been on high alert since the unrest, deploying heavy security forces and conducting regular patrols. December 13 marked the third Friday since the disturbances, and officials were closely monitoring Friday prayers.
During the prayers, the Azan was broadcast over a loudspeaker at AnarWali Masjid. Police and administrative officials, led by ASP Shreesh Chand and CO Anuj Chaudhary, immediately responded by surrounding the mosque. Imam Tahzeeb was summoned outside and arrested on charges of disturbing peace.
He was subsequently presented before SDMDr. Vandana Mishra, who granted bail upon the furnishing of a ₹2 lakh bond. Dr. Mishra stated that the use of loudspeakers violated prior instructions, which had been issued based on Supreme Court orders, emphasising the removal or restricted use of loudspeakers in religious places.
Imam Tahzeeb claimed he was unaware of the issue, stating, “The Azan in the mosque is led by someone else. I am the Imam and had no knowledge of this matter. I was not invited to any meeting regarding these instructions.”
The police defended their actions, highlighting that a meeting with religious leaders had been held two days earlier to ensure compliance with the SC directives.
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