The Uttar Pradesh police resorted to tear gas and lathi-charge on Sunday morning to disperse a mob that resorted to arson and stone pelting during a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal. The incident escalated during the second round of surveying, which was being conducted on the directives of a local court. The petition linked to the case alleges that the Mughal-era mosque was constructed on the ruins of the Harihar temple.
Survey Leads to Chaos Near Disputed Mosque Site
The survey, overseen by an Advocate Commissioner appointed by the court, commenced around 7 a.m. on Sunday. The local administration had taken precautionary measures, deploying police personnel near the mosque to ensure the smooth execution of the survey. However, tension simmered as crowds began to gather near the disputed site.
According to Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi, the situation turned volatile when a group of miscreants emerged from the crowd and began pelting stones at the police and survey team. “Some miscreants came out of the crowd gathered near the site and pelted stones at the police team. The police used minor force and tear gas to bring the situation under control,” Vishnoi stated.
The mob also set several vehicles ablaze during the chaos, prompting the authorities to take immediate action. Despite the unrest, the survey was completed successfully, and the team was safely escorted out of the area.
Background: Court-Ordered Survey of Shahi Jama Masjid
The survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid stems from a legal petition claiming that the mosque stands on the ruins of the Harihar temple. The petitioner argued for a court-ordered examination to verify the claims, leading to the appointment of an Advocate Commissioner to oversee the process.
The first survey, conducted earlier, faced resistance, prompting heightened security and planning for the second round. The court’s order emphasizes maintaining peace during the examination, but the events on Sunday revealed the depth of local tensions surrounding the issue.
Police Response to Restore Order
As tensions flared, the police resorted to tear gas and a controlled lathi-charge to disperse the unruly crowd. The quick response ensured the safety of the survey team and prevented further escalation of violence. The Superintendent of Police confirmed that the situation was swiftly brought under control, and no major injuries were reported.
While the survey concluded without interruption to its objectives, the incident highlighted the underlying sensitivities surrounding the site. Authorities have assured residents that stringent measures will be implemented to prevent future disturbances during court-ordered operations.
Impact and Public Reactions
The incident sparked discussions across the region, with many calling for restraint and adherence to legal proceedings. Local leaders urged citizens to maintain peace and allow the legal process to determine the outcome of the dispute.
Residents near the mosque expressed concern over the unrest, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue rather than confrontation. “We want the issue resolved through legal means. Violence only worsens the situation,” said a local shopkeeper near the site.
The state administration has been criticized for not adequately anticipating the potential for unrest during the survey. Opposition leaders have called for better planning and preventive measures in sensitive cases to avoid such incidents.
A Delicate Case with Broader Implications
The controversy surrounding the Shahi Jama Masjid and the claims about its origins reflect broader issues related to historical and religious disputes in India. Cases like this often evoke strong emotions and can easily spiral into larger conflicts if not managed carefully.
Legal experts have stressed the importance of impartial and transparent handling of such matters to ensure that justice prevails without compromising public order. “It is essential to respect the court’s directives and maintain a calm environment during the proceedings,” said a senior legal advisor familiar with similar cases.