Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh: A tense situation unfolded early this morning as a court-ordered survey of the historic Jama Masjid in Sambhal led to violent protests. At around 6:50 am, a team comprising the government advocate, the Hindu side’s advocate, and senior district officials, including the DM, SP, and SDM, entered the mosque premises to conduct the survey. This triggered strong opposition from members of the Muslim community, escalating into a stone-pelting incident that required police intervention.
Police Action and Current Situation
As the survey team arrived, local residents from the Muslim community gathered to protest against the survey, claiming it was unjust and aimed at disturbing communal harmony. When the situation turned violent with stone pelting targeting the police, law enforcement responded with a lathi charge to disperse the crowd.
- Current Status: The area remains under heavy police deployment, and authorities have declared the situation tense but under control.
- Injuries and Arrests: Preliminary reports indicate injuries on both sides, and several individuals have been detained for questioning.
Why Is the Survey Being Conducted?
The survey is being conducted based on an order by the Civil Judge (Senior Division) of Sambhal, following a petition filed by advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain representing the Hindu side. According to the petition:
- The Jama Masjid was allegedly constructed in 1529 by Mughal emperor Babur after demolishing the Harihar Temple, a sacred site for Hindus.
- The Harihar Temple, believed to be the birthplace of Kalki Avatar from Hindu mythology, holds significant religious importance.
The court directed the formation of an Advocate Commission to conduct a videography and photography-based survey and submit a report. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Uttar Pradesh government, Jama Masjid Committee, and the Sambhal District Magistrate were named as parties in the case.
Claims and Counterclaims: What Both Sides Say
- Hindu Side’s Argument:
Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain claimed that the mosque has structural evidence, such as marks and designs, indicating the site was originally a Hindu temple.
- He emphasized that the Harihar Temple is a protected area under ASI regulations, and no encroachments are legally permissible.
- Muslim Community’s Stand:
SP MP from Sambhal, Zia Ur Rehman Barq, strongly opposed the survey, stating:
- The Jama Masjid is a historic site and has been a mosque since 1529.
- Referring to the 1991 Places of Worship Act, he reminded that the Supreme Court mandates the preservation of religious sites as they existed in 1947.
- He accused certain groups of attempting to disrupt communal harmony by raising unfounded claims.
Previous Surveys and Legal Developments
This is not the first instance of controversy surrounding the Jama Masjid. On November 19, a similar survey was conducted under court orders, wherein the Advocate Commission documented the site through videography and photography.
- Findings of the Previous Survey: While the Hindu side highlighted structural elements as evidence of a temple, the Jama Masjid Committee dismissed these claims, asserting that the site has always been a mosque.
The case is expected to proceed through additional hearings as the Advocate Commission submits its detailed report.
Implications for Communal Harmony
This incident adds to the growing list of disputes over religious sites in India. While courts continue to deliberate on historical claims, local authorities face the challenge of maintaining peace amidst heightened tensions.
- Law and Order Measures: Police have increased patrolling in sensitive areas of Sambhal to prevent further escalation.
- Community Leaders’ Role: Appeals for calm and restraint have been issued by leaders from both communities to avoid further clashes.
Looking Ahead
The survey’s findings will be pivotal in shaping the next steps of this legal battle. However, the situation underscores the broader challenge of balancing historical claims with contemporary communal harmony in India.
Stay tuned for updates as the case unfolds and authorities work to diffuse tensions in Sambhal.
