The Kashmir Dialogues
Sambhal (UP), Nov 29: Security has been tightened across the Sambhal district ahead of Friday prayers and the anticipated submission of a survey report on the Shahi Jama Masjid by the court-appointed Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team. The survey follows claims that a Harihar temple once stood at the site of the mosque.
The situation has been fraught since November 19, when the court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid was conducted. The survey was initiated following allegations that the mosque stands on the remains of a former temple, fueling communal tensions in the area.
Divisional Commissioner of Moradabad, Aunjaneya Kumar Singh, stated that security has been bolstered at sensitive religious sites across the district and around the court in Chandausi to prevent any escalation of unrest.
Gopal Sharma, the lawyer for the Hindu side, noted that Friday’s court hearing would include the plaintiff’s reply, alongside the submission of findings from the ASI’s survey. “Our further action will be determined after the survey report is reviewed,” Sharma stated.
Meanwhile, Shakeel Ahmed Warsi, representing the Muslim side, emphasized their preparedness to present their case. “We have all the necessary evidence and will first request a copy of the survey report before strongly presenting our side in court,” Warsi said.
Tensions reached a boiling point on November 24, when protests near the mosque escalated into violence. Clashes between protesters and security forces led to stone-pelting and arson, resulting in four deaths and numerous injuries.
Local authorities are maintaining a close watch on the situation to prevent further unrest and ensure peace. The district remains on edge as the court’s decision and the ASI’s findings are awaited.
Sheikh Mudasir
