Violence Breaks Out in Sambhal Over Shahi Masjid Survey; Police Fire Tear Gas, Stones Thrown

Violence broke out in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday as protesters clashed with police over a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. The survey, ordered by the court, was initiated following a complaint claiming that the mosque was originally a Hindu temple, Hari Har Mandir, which was allegedly demolished by Mughal emperor Babar to build the mosque.

Hundreds of protesters gathered as the survey team arrived, opposing the survey. The situation escalated when the crowd began throwing stones at the team, which was escorted by a heavy police presence. In response, the police fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd.

The head of the Jama Masjid made an appeal from inside the mosque for the crowd to disperse, but the protests continued, and the situation became more intense with stone-pelting. Senior police officials attempted to calm the protesters, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

Prashant Kumar, Uttar Pradesh’s top police official, stated, “A survey is being conducted in Sambhal on the orders of the court. Some anti-social elements have pelted stones. The police and senior officers are on site. The situation is under control, and the police will identify the stone pelters and take appropriate legal action.”

The survey at the Shahi Jama Masjid was ordered following a complaint by Supreme Court lawyer Vishnu Shankar Jain, who claimed the mosque was built on the site of the ancient temple. The complaint alleges that the Mughal emperor Babar partially demolished Hari Har Mandir in 1529 to construct the mosque.

The region has experienced rising tensions in recent days, with a heavy police force deployed and prohibitory orders enforced to prevent gatherings of more than five people. Similar surveys had already been conducted on November 19, with local police and mosque management present.

In response to the growing unrest, the district administration on Saturday ordered 35 individuals to be “bound down” on bonds up to Rs 10 lakh to maintain peace. This legal action is taken when authorities believe someone may disturb public order or engage in unlawful activities.

Vishnu Jain, who has represented the Hindu side in various temple-related disputes, is spearheading the complaint, which has added to the already tense atmosphere in the area.