The Allahabad High Court stayed FIR proceedings against the Sambhal Jama Masjid cleric in the 2024 violence case, while allowing police investigation and probe to continue lawfully.
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Prayagraj: The Allahabad High Court has stayed further proceedings in an FIR registered against Zafar Ali, cleric of Sambhal Jama Masjid, for allegedly violating prohibitory orders after being released on bail in the 2024 Sambhal violence case.
The order was passed on September 18, 2025, by a Division Bench comprising Justice Siddharth Varma and Justice Abdul Shahid, in response to a petition filed by Zafar Ali and three others.
Background of the Case
On November 24, 2024, violence broke out during a survey at the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, resulting in four deaths. Following the incident, Sub-Inspector Deepak Rathi lodged an FIR at Kotwali police station under charges including rioting and incitement.
Zafar Ali was arrested in connection with the violence but was later released on bail. Soon after, a car rally was organised in alleged violation of prohibitory orders, leading to the registration of a fresh FIR against him and others.
Petitioner’s Plea
The petitioners argued before the Court that the present case was non-cognizable in nature and, therefore, an FIR should not have been lodged. They contended that any further action could only be initiated upon a proper complaint being filed before the competent magistrate.
High Court’s Order
The Bench stayed further proceedings in the FIR but clarified that the police are not barred from continuing their investigation in accordance with the law. The Court stated that the matter may proceed if a proper complaint is filed before the magistrate, in line with procedural requirements.
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