A court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Jama Masjid in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal escalated into violent clashes on Saturday morning, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to over 30 police personnel. The mosque is at the centre of a legal battle over claims that it was built on the site of a Hindu temple, leading to heightened tensions in the area.
The survey, led by an “Advocate Commissioner,” began at 7:30 am. As the team commenced its work, a large crowd gathered near the mosque, opposing the entry of the police and survey officials. The mob, swelling to nearly a thousand people, resorted to stone-pelting and set over ten vehicles on fire.
Police Use Tear Gas Amid Escalation
In response, police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd. During the chaos, three individuals identified as Naeem, Bilal, and Nauman lost their lives, while several others, including the gunner of the superintendent of police, were injured. “Those involved in the violence will be identified, and strict action will be taken,” said Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi.
Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed the arrests of 15 people, including three women, in connection with the violence. Videos circulating online allegedly show stone-throwing near the mosque, although their authenticity remains unverified.
Historical Context and Legal Controversy
The survey stems from a petition claiming the mosque was built on the ruins of a temple, with historical texts like Baburnamah and Ain-e-Akbari cited as evidence. Proponents of the survey argue it seeks to uncover historical truths, while critics view it as a violation of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which mandates that religious structures remain as they were in 1947.
Despite the unrest, officials managed to complete the survey as planned, with the findings supported by videography and photography. The report is slated for submission on November 29.
Political Reactions and Allegations
The incident has drawn sharp reactions from political leaders. Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi shared a video on social media showing DIG Range Muniraj allegedly firing a pistol during the violence and instructing police officers to fire. However, Sambhal police have denied firing live rounds, and the video has not been independently verified.
Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP-led government of instigating unrest to divert attention from allegations of electoral malpractice in recent bypolls. He called for the Supreme Court to investigate the “conspiracy to spread tension in the name of the survey.” SP MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq also criticised the move, citing the Places of Worship Act and stressing that religious structures should remain unchanged as per the Supreme Court’s ruling.
In the wake of the violence, schools in Sambhal and surrounding areas have been closed until November 25 to ensure safety. The situation remains tense, with authorities monitoring developments closely.
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