In Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, authorities have imposed strict measures following violent clashes over a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Masjid. Schools remain closed, mobile internet services are suspended, and large public gatherings are banned. The unrest, which occurred on Sunday, November 24, resulted in the deaths of four people and injuries to several others, including police officers.
The violence erupted when protesters opposed the survey of the mosque, claiming it was built by demolishing a temple during the Mughal era. Demonstrators threw stones and set vehicles on fire, prompting police to respond with tear gas. Reports indicate that shots were fired by some protesters, injuring a police officer. Among the deceased are Nauman, Bilal, Naim, and Mohd Kaif, with autopsies pending to confirm the cause of death.
A case has been filed against Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq and Sohail Iqbal, the son of local MLA Iqbal Mehmood, for allegedly inciting violence and mobilizing crowds. Police have detained 21 individuals, including two women, and are considering charges under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) for those involved in the unrest. Security measures include banning the purchase or storage of stones, soda bottles, or flammable materials, and restrictions on outsiders entering the area without permission until November 30.
The incident has sparked a political blame game. The Congress party accused the BJP of orchestrating the violence as part of a conspiracy, while Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the government for using the situation to divert attention from election issues. The BJP countered by alleging that opposition parties were fueling unrest and emphasized the need for disputes to be resolved through legal channels.
The clashes followed a court order to survey the Shahi Masjid after claims that it was built on the site of a demolished temple. While the first survey was incomplete, the second was completed on Sunday despite the violence. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation to maintain law and order.
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