MEERUT, March 24 -- The special investigation team (SIT) of Uttar Pradesh Police arrested Zafar Ali, president of Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, on Sunday in connection with the violent clashes that erupted during a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era mosque on November 24, 2024. The violence led to five deaths and multiple injuries, including to police personnel.

Ali, a practising advocate and head of the mosque's committee, was arrested following a four-month probe, during which authorities accused him of inciting violence through social media and provocative statements. He was taken into custody from his residence, located 100 metres from the mosque, around 11:00 am.

Local police, led by an inspector and the SIT's investigating off...