UP Sambhal Mosque Survey, Violence Erupts, Vehicles Torched
The unrest in Sambhal followed a petition by senior advocate Vishnu Shanker Jain, claiming the mosque was an ancient Hindu temple, filed in the Civil Judge's court.
Tensions flared in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district on Sunday as stone pelting erupted during a survey at the Shahi Jama Masjid. The situation escalated when vehicles were set ablaze, prompting police to use tear gas to restore order. The survey was carried out following a contentious petition claiming the mosque was originally a Hindu temple.
Sambhal Mosque Survey Sparks Violence and Stone Pelting
This petition, filed by advocate Vishnu Shanker Jain, has sparked local unrest and political debate. The incident highlights the sensitive nature of disputes over historical religious sites, with authorities working to maintain peace amid growing tensions in the area.
The Petition That Led to the Controversy
The controversy had originated from a petition filed by senior advocate Vishnu Shanker Jain in the Civil Judge's court. The petition, with the support of five others, is presented by Rishiraj Giri from the Kela Devi temple, who claims the Shahi Jama Masjid was an ancient Hindu temple originally. It claims that the temple was converted into a mosque by Mughal emperor Babur in 1529. The petition further claims that it falls under an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected area, based on alleged symbols and signs of the mosque that suggest its Hindu origins.
This dispute mirrors a larger trend of judicial and religious battle over ancient religious structures in India. Another survey is conducted on November 19, and with the villagers in attendance along with the local police and the Mosque Management Committee, the occasion passed peacefully.
Deputy CM Response:
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya again reiterated on Sunday, during the violence in the city, that the government would maintain law and order. "It is the duty of the government and the police to follow court instructions. Action will be taken against anyone obstructing the process," he stated firmly.
Wider Implication
The Sambhal mosque controversy typifies the sensitive and complex character of disputes over religious sites in India. While investigations and court proceedings continue, the authorities remain vigilant, trying not to let the tensions lead to violence.
