Anuj Chaudhary, a police officer known in Sambhal for his controversial remarks and actions against Muslims, has been promoted to the rank of Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) despite public criticism and protests. Chaudhary, who joined the force in 2012 through the sports quota, is the first in Uttar Pradesh to reach the ASP rank via this route. His promotion was marked in a formal ceremony where senior officers placed the Ashoka Pillar insignia on his uniform.
In Sambhal, many Muslims reacted with a mix of faith and resignation. “The government is doing its work and Allah had written this in his destiny, so he got the promotion,” said one local resident. Another added, “He has worked for law and order, so he got the reward for it.”
Chaudhary’s tenure in Sambhal has been marked by incidents that left lasting scars on the community. During Holi in one year, when the festival coincided with Friday prayers, he said, “Holi comes once a year, while Jumma comes 52 times. Those who avoid Holi should stay at home.” The remark drew criticism for belittling a religious practice central to Muslims.
His most controversial episode came during tensions at Sambhal’s Shahi Jama Masjid. Following a court order for the Archaeological Survey of India to inspect the mosque, police accompanied the team, triggering clashes with residents. Several officers were injured, and five people died. Locals say the deaths were due to police firing, a claim the police denied. When asked about the fatalities, Chaudhary said, “I have not joined the police to die,” a comment that angered many.
For many in Sambhal’s Muslim community, his promotion is another sign of their grievances being ignored. While some accept it as fate, others quietly recall the pain from incidents that deepened their mistrust of the police.
