Violence erupted in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday during a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, leading to the deaths of three people and leaving several others injured, including police personnel and senior officials. In response to the unrest, the Sambhal district administration has ordered a 24-hour internet shutdown in the Sambhal Tehsil and announced the closure of schools in the area.
Details of the Incident
The violence started when a team, as part of a legal process linked to a petition by senior advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, arrived at the Shahi Jama Masjid to conduct a fresh survey. The petition claims that the mosque, built in 1529, was originally a temple that had been demolished. Tensions flared when local residents allegedly attacked the survey team, throwing stones at the police. In retaliation, the police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd.
The survey was conducted under the orders of a civil court and was accompanied by a strong police presence. Despite the initial peaceful start from 7 AM to 11 AM, violence escalated when a mob of 2,000-3,000 people gathered and began pelting stones at the police. Protesters also torched vehicles and clashed with security forces. The police responded with tear gas and pellet guns to control the situation.
Casualties and Injuries
Three individuals—Naeem, Bilal, and Nauman—lost their lives during the violence, while around two dozen others, including policemen and government officials, sustained injuries. Among the injured were four senior police officers, 20 policemen, and a deputy collector, some of whom were seriously hurt. A police PRO also sustained a bullet injury to his leg.
Investigations and Legal Actions
A magisterial inquiry has been ordered to investigate the violence. Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed the deaths and injuries, stating that some of the injured included the gunner (bodyguard) of the superintendent of police. He also emphasized that the police did not open fire but used tear gas to disperse the mob.
Superintendent of Police Krishan Bishnoi addressed the situation, stating that security forces had been adequately deployed based on the district magistrate’s directives. He insisted that the clashes were not the result of any security or intelligence failure but were an unavoidable outcome of the large crowd’s sudden mobilization.
Political Reactions
The violence has drawn sharp political reactions, with Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accusing the ruling BJP of orchestrating the unrest to divert attention from electoral malpractice.
Ongoing Legal Process
The survey of the mosque was conducted following a court order based on a petition filed by Vishnu Shankar Jain, who has alleged that the mosque was built on the site of a demolished temple. The initial survey, carried out on November 19, has led to rising tensions in the region. A further survey, including videography and photography, has been ordered by the civil court, with the report to be submitted by November 29.
Current Situation
The internet suspension will remain in effect for 24 hours, and schools in Sambhal Tehsil will remain closed for the time being as authorities assess the situation. More than 15 individuals, including two women, have been arrested in connection with the violence.
The ongoing tension in Sambhal continues to raise concerns, with authorities monitoring the situation closely.
