After three months of violent clashes that erupted in Sambhal over a court-ordered survey of the 16th-century Shahi Jama Masjid, around 1,000 homes remain locked as residents fear arrest or retribution, officials said.
The unrest on 24 November saw a large crowd confront police, resulting in four deaths and several injuries, including among law enforcement personnel.
Despite repeated assurances from senior police officers that only those directly involved in the violence would face action, many families have yet to return to their homes.
Some residents have left notes outside their locked homes explaining their absence. One resident displayed a radiology report, stating they had travelled to Delhi for cancer treatment.
Another posted a notice citing a bank loan taken against their house. Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar said authorities were aware of these letters and continued to reassure residents that no action would be taken against the innocent.
The affected homes are mainly in Hindpura, Kot Garvi, Nakhasa, and Deepa Sarai. Police believe most residents have sought refuge in Delhi and have dispatched a team to verify their whereabouts.
The Uttar Pradesh government is assessing the damage to public property caused by the violence, which saw government and private vehicles damaged, stone pelting on buildings and police personnel, and barricades vandalised.
Reports have been sought from the Transport, Police, and other relevant departments, with the damage assessment now complete.
A senior official stated that notices for recovery of damages would be issued to the accused after the chargesheet is filed, expected next week.
So far, police have arrested 76 people, with the most recent arrest taking place on 12 February. All suspects are currently held in Moradabad.
Additional Superintendent of Police Shrish Chandra confirmed that a chargesheet would be filed soon. Authorities are also searching for 86 individuals identified during the investigation, with non-bailable warrants issued against 21 of them.
Rewards have been announced for information leading to their arrests, and raids are ongoing.
Last week, police arrested Mohammad Adil, a resident allegedly seen in a video speaking to a Pakistan-based cleric about the violence.
Investigators have also obtained new footage purportedly showing a man inciting the crowd. Authorities are probing whether the individual is associated with a local madrasa.
In an effort to track down suspects, police have released large posters featuring wanted individuals, which will be displayed across the city.
Twelve FIRs have been registered in connection with the violence, and officers have published photographs of around 250 suspects identified through CCTV footage.
Officials are also investigating the possible involvement of a wanted gangster operating from abroad. Police say they are working to establish his role in orchestrating the violence.
As the crackdown continues, residents who fled remain uncertain about returning, highlighting the lingering tensions in the area.
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