The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has told the Central Information Commission (CIC) that it has no records indicating whether the historic Jama Masjid in Sambhal was built over an earlier structure or on vacant land. The agency also said it does not have documents showing who owned the land when the mosque was constructed.
RTI Sought Details on Mosque’s History
The statement comes after an RTI application filed by Satya Prakash Yadav, who asked for information on the origins of the Mughal-era mosque, including whether it was built over ruins, the landowner at the time, and documents granting ownership rights.
In its response, the ASI said, “No such information is available in this office.” The agency added that it also has no records about the type of construction present when the site came under protection, any later additions, or past disputes linked to the mosque.
During first appeal proceedings, the ASI cited a 2018 incident to reinforce its stance that no new construction is permitted within protected monuments. The department had stopped the construction of an “illegal” steel railing at the mosque that year.
Historical Details Provided by ASI
On the mosque’s period of construction, the ASI said, “Jama Masjid Sambhal was constructed in the year 1526,” citing supporting material. The agency also confirmed that the mosque has been protected under the same name since its inclusion under ASI protection in 1920. Regarding its current status, the ASI said, “At present, it exists as a mosque.”
CIC Upholds ASI’s Stand
The appellant argued before the Commission that key information had been wrongly denied. The ASI maintained that it had shared all available records and could not be required to create or collect information that it does not hold.
The CIC agreed, observing that under the RTI Act, public authorities are obliged to provide only information that already exists. “Information not held by a public authority cannot be directed to be furnished,” the Commission noted, dismissing the appeal.
Background: Legal Dispute and Riots
The Sambhal Jama Masjid has been at the centre of a legal dispute after a petition claimed the mosque was built over an ancient Hindu temple. The controversy gained attention following riots in Sambhal on November 24, 2024, during protests against a court-ordered ASI survey. Four people were killed, and several others, including police personnel, were injured.
Finding no grounds for further action, the Commission upheld that the ASI’s response regarding the mosque’s historical records was in line with the law.
