Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh: Tensions reached a boiling point in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal on Saturday as a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Jama Masjid escalated into violent clashes, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to over 30 police personnel. The mosque has been at the center of a contentious legal battle over claims that it was constructed on the site of a Hindu temple.
The Incident
The violence erupted early in the morning when a survey team led by an “Advocate Commissioner” arrived at the mosque. A crowd of nearly a thousand people gathered to oppose the survey, attempting to block police access to the mosque. The situation turned violent as some individuals began pelting stones at the police, prompting a forceful response. Tear gas was used to disperse the mob, but the chaos spiraled as over ten vehicles were set on fire.
“Three people identified as Naeem, Bilal, and Nauman have been killed. Several police officers, including the superintendent’s gunner, sustained injuries,” said Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh, according to PTI.
Survey Details and Historical Claims
The survey, conducted as per a court directive, is part of a legal process stemming from a petition alleging that a temple once stood at the site of the mosque. The petitioners reference historical texts such as Baburnama and Ain-e-Akbari to support claims that Mughal emperor Babur demolished the temple in 1529 to build the mosque.
Despite the unrest, officials completed the survey, which involved videography and photography of the site. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the petitioners, confirmed that the report would be submitted by November 29.
Legal and Political Reactions
The incident has reignited debates surrounding the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which maintains that religious places as they existed in 1947 should remain unchanged. Critics of the survey argue that it violates this law and risks exacerbating communal tensions.
Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP-led government of orchestrating the unrest to divert attention from allegations of electoral malpractice in recent bypolls. “A survey team was deliberately sent in the morning to create chaos and distract from election issues,” Yadav claimed.
SP MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq echoed the criticism, stating, “The Jama Masjid of Sambhal is a historic site. The Supreme Court has ruled that religious places must remain as they were in 1947.”
Arrests and Investigation
Police have arrested 15 individuals, including three women, in connection with the violence. Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi assured that all those involved in the clashes would be identified and face strict action. Videos circulating online purportedly show scenes of stone-pelting and burning vehicles near the mosque.
Broader Implications
The incident highlights the sensitive nature of disputes involving religious sites in India. While supporters of the survey argue it is necessary to uncover historical truths, critics warn that such actions risk inflaming communal tensions and undermining the secular principles of the Constitution.
With the survey report expected later this month, the legal battle over the Jama Masjid is far from over, and the political ramifications are likely to continue making headlines.
