The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has submitted its response to the court, asserting its claim over the management and control of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, a heritage site protected since 1920.
ASI representative Vishnu Sharma highlighted past challenges, including a January 2018 incident where the mosque’s management committee was taken to court for unauthorized installation of steel railings. Sharma said, “The mosque, as an ASI-protected monument, must allow public access under our guidelines.”
The ASI expressed concerns over unauthorized changes made by the mosque’s committee, calling them “unlawful.” The organization stressed the need to retain authority to manage the site and oversee structural modifications.
The controversy escalated following a court-ordered survey on November 24 to investigate claims that a Hindu temple once existed at the mosque site. Violent clashes broke out during the survey, leaving four people dead and several injured.
In response, a judicial commission led by retired Allahabad High Court judge Devendra Kumar Arora has been formed to probe the incident. Two members of the commission have already arrived in Sambhal, with a third expected soon. The commission’s investigation will determine whether the violence was premeditated and assess police and administrative actions during the unrest.
The commission has two months to submit its findings, with extensions requiring government approval. It will also recommend preventive measures for similar situations in the future.
Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed the commission’s activities and noted, “The inquiry aims to understand the causes of the violence and ensure such incidents are not repeated.”
