Zia Ur Rehman Barq: SP Leader and Sambhal MP Faces Bulldozer Action, Rs 1.91 Crore Fine Imposed by UPPCL

Zia Ur Rehman Barq, the Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and Member of Parliament (MP) from Sambhal, is facing significant legal and administrative challenges. Recently, the district administration launched bulldozer action against his property, as part of ongoing measures to address alleged illegal encroachments. This move follows an electricity theft charge that has sparked widespread controversy.

Bulldozer Action on Zia Ur Rehman Barq's Property

संभल में सपा सांसद जियाउर्रहमान बर्क के नए घर के बाहर की सीढ़ियां (अतिक्रमण) बुलडोजर से तोड़ी गईं।

बर्क पर हर रोज एक नया एक्शन हो रहा है। रोज सरकारी फाइल मोटी हो रही है। बर्क साहब अब आजम खान बनने की तरफ पूर्णतः अग्रसर हैं। pic.twitter.com/MbfdXJr7sC

— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) December 20, 2024

On Friday, the municipal team took swift action to demolish illegal structures around Zia Ur Rehman Barq’s house, particularly focusing on encroachments that were obstructing the drains. The stairs built over the drain were also razed during this operation. The demolition came shortly after a power disconnection, marking a significant escalation in the district's response to Barq's alleged violations.

The Rs 1.91 Crore Fine by UPPCL

The Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) has imposed a hefty fine of Rs. 1.91 crore on Barq after an investigation revealed that his residence in Sambhal had been using electricity far beyond the sanctioned amount. The MP's house had been consuming more than 16 kilowatts of electricity, despite being issued a meter designed for only 4 kilowatts. According to media reports, UPPCL Assistant Engineer revealed that the old meter was replaced with a smart meter, which showed that the previous meter had been registering zero units for the last six months, indicating potential electricity theft.

Accusations and Legal Battles Ahead

This isn't the first time Zia Ur Rehman Barq has found himself at the center of controversy. Prior to the November 24 violence near Shahi Jama Masjid, Barq was accused of inciting the crowd. Now, with a fine and a possible arrest looming, Barq has taken legal action, filing a petition in the Allahabad High Court to prevent his arrest. A hearing for this petition is expected soon.

Meanwhile, his father, Mamluk Ur Rahman Barq, is accused of threatening UPPCL employees during the electricity raid. The altercation reportedly took place when the officials attempted to disconnect the power supply. Mamluk Ur Rahman has denied these claims. He believes these actions are part of a larger strategy to tarnish the reputation of both his son and the Samajwadi Party.

The legal team representing the family argues that there is no legal basis for the FIR or the fine and has vowed to challenge both in court.