TL;DR: Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were stopped by UP Police while attempting to visit Sambhal to meet victims of recent violence. Their convoy was halted at Ghazipur border, leading them to call the action a violation of democratic rights. This incident sparked widespread debate on political freedoms in India.
On December 4, 2024, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were stopped by the Uttar Pradesh Police as they attempted to visit Sambhal district, where violence had recently occurred. Their convoy was intercepted at the Ghazipur border on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway.
Rahul Gandhi’s Reaction:
Rahul Gandhi expressed strong dissatisfaction, describing the police action as a "violation of my constitutional rights." He offered to leave his convoy behind and proceed to Sambhal alone with police assistance but was still denied permission.
Priyanka Gandhi’s Criticism:
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also criticized the action, stating, "Blocking opposition leaders from meeting victims is undemocratic. This is not how a democracy should function."
Background of Violence in Sambhal:
The Sambhal district recently witnessed violent incidents triggered by a survey conducted at a Muslim prayer site. The violence led to significant distress among local residents. The Congress leaders aimed to meet the victims and extend their support, but the state authorities cited security concerns as the reason for blocking their visit.
Congress Party’s Response:
The Congress Party expressed outrage over the incident, accusing the Yogi Adityanath-led government of trying to suppress the truth. Party spokesperson Supriya Shrinate said, "Preventing opposition leaders from visiting victims shows the government has something to hide. This is unconstitutional."
Nationwide Debate:
This incident sparked a broader debate about democratic freedoms and the rights of opposition leaders to visit affected areas. Citizens across India questioned whether the state government’s action was justified or an attempt to curb dissent.
