3 dead, over 30 cops injured in violence over mosque survey in UP’s Sambhal

www.mangaloretoday.com

Sambhal, November 24, 2024: Chaos erupted in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal this morning as a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Jama Masjid led to violent clashes between locals and police, leading to the deaths of three individuals. The mosque is at the centre of a contentious legal battle over claims that it was built on the site of a Hindu temple.

According to the police, the violence began when a crowd gathered near the mosque as the survey team, led by an "Advocate Commissioner," began its work. The crowd swelled to nearly a thousand people, who tried to prevent the police from entering the mosque. Some individuals in the crowd threw stones at police personnel stationed at the site. The mob set more than ten vehicles on fire. The police responded with tear gas to disperse the mob. In the ensuing chaos, two individuals were killed and over 30 police personnel were injured.

"Three people identified as Naeem, Bilal and Nauman have been killed. Some policemen including the gunner of the superintendent of police have also been injured," Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh said as quoted by news agency PTI.

The survey, which began at 7:30 am, was part of a process initiated by a petition claiming that a temple once stood where the mosque now stands. Tensions have been simmering in Sambhal since a similar survey was conducted on Tuesday. The petitioners argue that historical texts such as "Baburnama" and "Ain-e-Akbari" document the destruction of the temple by Mughal emperor Babur in 1529.

Supporters of the survey argue it is a necessary step in uncovering historical truths, while critics view it as a provocation that violates the sanctity of religious places as upheld by the Places of Worship Act, 1991.

"Some individuals in the crowd threw stones at the police team. The police used minor force and tear gas to bring the situation under control. Those involved in the violence will be identified and action will be taken," said Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi.