Azamgarh Court Delivers Life Sentences in Decades-Old Sectarian Murder Case
In a landmark verdict, the Azamgarh district court on Tuesday handed down life imprisonment to 12 individuals convicted for the 1999 killing of Shia leader Ali Akbar. The case, rooted in a bitter land dispute between Shia and Sunni sects in Pura Sofi village of Mubarakpur, has finally seen justice after a prolonged legal battle spanning over two decades.
Court Convicts and Sentences 12 Accused
The court of district and sessions judge Jay Prakash Pandey pronounced the sentences, following their conviction on February 13. Azamgarh's district government counsel (criminal) Priyadarshi Piyush Tripathi confirmed that the convicts—Husain Ahmad, Mohammad Ayub Faizi, Faheem Akhtar, Asrar Ahmad, Mohammad Yakub, Ali Zaheer, Irshad, Mohammad Asad, Afzal, Alauddin, Dilshad, and Waseem—were each sentenced to life imprisonment. Additionally, the court imposed a fine of Rs 66,500 on each convict.
Background of the 1999 Incident
The tragic events unfolded on April 27, 1999, when Ali Akbar led a Muharram procession in Pura Sofi village. Tensions were already high due to a longstanding dispute over a 10-foot plot of land between the Shia and Sunni communities. As the procession proceeded, it was blocked by a rival group, sparking a violent clash between the two sects.
The situation quickly escalated into a massive stone-pelting incident, forcing police to intervene and use force to restore order. Later that evening, Ali Akbar went missing after he had gone to bury Tazia. His son filed a missing complaint with police on April 28, 1999. Two days later, Ali's beheaded body was discovered in Raja Bhat's pond, prompting his nephew, Nasir Hussain, to file a murder case at the Mubarakpur police station.
Legal Proceedings and Delays
Police filed two chargesheets against the accused in July and November 1999. However, the case faced significant delays due to a series of Shia-Sunni riots that erupted in the aftermath, resulting in several deaths and numerous other cases. These events diverted police attention away from Ali Akbar's murder investigation.
For years, the case was not pursued efficiently, with court dates being repeatedly issued without substantial progress. It was only in November 2025 that the prosecution cell of Azamgarh police prioritized the case, ensuring its diligent pursuance. During the lengthy hearing process, four accused—Haji Mohammad Suleman, Najibullah, Hamidullah alias Jheenak, and Haji Abdul Khaliq—passed away.
Significance of the Verdict
This verdict marks a crucial step towards justice in a case that has haunted the local community for over 25 years. It underscores the judicial system's commitment to addressing sectarian violence and land disputes, which have often led to prolonged conflicts in the region. The sentencing sends a strong message about the consequences of such violent acts, even if justice is delayed.
The court's decision highlights the importance of persistent legal efforts in resolving long-pending cases, especially those involving communal tensions. It also reflects the challenges faced by law enforcement in managing multiple crises simultaneously, as seen with the diversion caused by subsequent riots.
As the families of the victims and the convicted grapple with the outcome, this case serves as a reminder of the deep-seated issues that can arise from land disputes and sectarian divisions. The legal resolution, though belated, offers a measure of closure and reinforces the rule of law in addressing such complex and sensitive matters.
