As Uttar Pradesh (UP) Police continue the task of evidence collection after the 24 November Sambhal violence over a court-ordered mosque survey, a Pakistan connection has now emerged in the case.

Despite a directive barring outsiders from entering violence-hit Sambhal, Rahul Gandhi plans to visit. The district’s administration warns that his presence could escalate tensions following deadly clashes over a mosque survey.

The district administration and police had already put up a blockade at the border to stop the delegation to Sambhal, where outsiders have been barred from visiting.

Security has been tightened following reports of Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's scheduled visit to Sambhal on Wednesday.

The Moradabad divisional commissioner said senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's visit could lead to a "provocation" in an otherwise "normal situation"

Authorities in Uttar Pradesh have restricted entry to violence-hit Sambhal until 10 December, urging Rahul Gandhi to reconsider his visit. Officials aim to prevent further tensions following recent clashes that left five dead and multiple injuries during an ASI survey at a mosque.

Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi plan to visit Sambhal tomorrow with Congress MPs, undeterred by prohibitory orders. Despite potential law and order issues, no change in restrictions is reported by the Yogi government.

As the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, prepares to visit the violence-hit Sambhal district in Uttar Pradesh on Wednesday, the local administration has reiterated restrictions on the entry of outsiders into the area.