MEERUT: Sambhal police have refused permission for the historic Neja Mela, citing objections to its association with Syed Salar Masood Ghazi, a 12th-century military commander under Mahmud Ghaznavi, who is linked to “plundering and violence” in India. The annual fair, scheduled from March 25 to 27, has long been a point of contention, with some viewing Ghazi as a revered figure and others as a symbol of historical invasions and massacres in India.
When members of the Neja Mela Committee met Sambhal ASP Shreesh Chandra, on Monday to discuss the matter, they were asked to clarify whom the fair was dedicated to. On learning that it honoured Syed Salar Masood Ghazi, Chandra made it clear that permission would not be granted.
Chandra said, “It is not possible to permit a fair commemorating someone who plundered the Somnath temple and massacred people in the country. Celebrating an event in his memory is anti-national and can disturb law and order. If anyone attempts to do this, strict action will be taken, and they will be called traitors. If this is being done out of ignorance, that is one thing, but if it is intentional, then those involved are traitors.”
Organisers have vowed to challenge the decision. “The fair has been organised for generations and we will make every effort to ensure our traditional mela is not stopped. We will meet the magistrate or even approach the court if necessary,” said Shahid Hussain Masudi, president, Neja Mela Committee.
(With inputs from Asif Ansari in Bareilly)
