The Chief Judicial Magistrate, Vibhanshu Sudhir, passed the order on January 9 on a plea by Yameen, whose son was injured in the unrest. He alleged police shot his 24-year-old son on November 24, 2024. The court ordered an FIR against the accused officers.
Anuj Chaudhary Challenges Sambhal Court Order in High Court
Lucknow: Former Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhary has challenged a Sambhal court order in the Allahabad High Court after a lower court directed the registration of an FIR against him in connection with the Sambhal violence case. The development comes days after the trial court’s ruling sparked legal and administrative debate.
The Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) court in Sambhal had directed the police to register an FIR against Anuj Chaudhary and other police personnel based on a private complaint related to alleged excesses during the Sambhal violence incident. The order was passed after the complainant sought judicial intervention, alleging misuse of authority.
The Chief Judicial Magistrate, Vibhanshu Sudhir, passed the order on January 9 on a plea by Yameen, whose son was injured in the unrest. He alleged police shot his 24-year-old son on November 24, 2024.
Following the CJM court’s directive, Anuj Chaudhary moved the High Court challenging the order. The petition argues that the trial court’s decision is legally unsustainable and seeks relief against the mandatory registration of an FIR. Authorities have maintained that the lower court’s order requires judicial review.
Shahi Jama Masjid (File Photo)
The police department has stated that it would not immediately register the FIR and would instead pursue legal remedies. Officials have termed the trial court’s order “procedurally flawed” and have supported the move to approach the High Court for clarity and protection.
The case stems from violence that occurred in Sambhal during the Shahi Jama Masjid survey in November 2024. Allegations later surfaced against certain police officials regarding their conduct while handling the situation. Clashes between protesters and police led to stone-pelting and alleged firing, which police denied.
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Five people were killed, several injured, and the Supreme Court later halted the survey proceedings. A private complaint was subsequently filed, leading to the CJM court’s order to register an FIR.
The case has drawn attention as it involves accountability of law enforcement officials and the balance between judicial oversight and police functioning. It also highlights the legal process surrounding court-directed FIRs and the rights of accused officials to seek higher judicial review.
The High Court is expected to examine the legality of the Sambhal court’s order. Its decision will determine whether the FIR will proceed or if the lower court’s directive will be stayed or quashed.
