Four Dead, Several Injured in Clashes During Shahi Jama Masjid Survey in Uttar Pradesh

Violence erupted in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday, leaving four people dead and several others, including police personnel, injured during a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid. The mosque, at the center of a legal dispute over claims that it was built on the site of a Hindu temple, became the focal point of protests that turned violent.

Locals, opposed to the survey, clashed with police as they attempted to carry out the court directive. Protesters set vehicles on fire, pelted stones, and clashed with security forces, prompting a forceful response from the police, including the use of tear gas and baton charges.

At least 20 police officers were injured in the violence, with a constable sustaining critical head injuries. District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya confirmed that two deaths were caused by gunshot wounds from country-made pistols, while the cause of a third death is pending confirmation following a post-mortem.

In response to the unrest, the district administration suspended internet services for 24 hours and declared a holiday for schools up to Class 12 on Monday. Authorities have also prohibited the entry of outsiders, social organizations, or public representatives into the district without prior approval until November 30.

The dispute surrounding the Shahi Jama Masjid stems from a petition alleging that a Hindu temple, the Harihar temple, was once located at the site and was demolished by Mughal Emperor Babur in 1529. A court-ordered survey, which began last Tuesday, had been interrupted by protests and was rescheduled for Sunday morning. Despite the violence, officials completed the survey, with videography and photography, and the report is expected to be submitted by November 29.

Political leaders have weighed in on the situation. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi criticized the state government for its handling of the violence, accusing the BJP of bias and mismanagement. He appealed for peace in the region. Meanwhile, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav called on the Supreme Court to take immediate action, alleging that the authorities were inciting tensions and disrupting social harmony.

The BJP, on the other hand, defended the survey, with spokesperson Nalin Kohli emphasizing the importance of respecting judicial decisions and suggesting legal recourse for those dissatisfied with the court’s order.

The survey has sparked intense debate. Supporters argue that it is necessary to uncover historical truths, while critics believe it undermines the sanctity of religious places under the Places of Worship Act, 1991.

The case regarding the Shahi Jama Masjid is being represented by Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain and his father Hari Shankar Jain, who have been involved in several high-profile disputes, including the Gyanvapi Mosque and Kashi Vishwanath temple case.

Authorities have detained 21 individuals, including three women, in connection with the violence and are considering invoking the stringent National Security Act (NSA) against those involved.