The situation in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has turned grim, with five people now reported dead following clashes between police and protesters opposing a survey of the Jama Masjid. Among the victims are Bilal Ansari (23), Nadeem Ahmed (35), Moh Kaif (18), Ayan (19), and Naeem Ghazi (35).
The unrest began on Sunday when protesters gathered to oppose the survey, which was conducted under a court order following claims that a Harihar temple once stood at the site. The protests turned violent, leading to stone-pelting, gunfire, and police retaliation with tear gas.
Bilal Ansari, a 23-year-old shopkeeper, was among those killed. His family said he was on his way home after witnessing the tense atmosphere but never made it back. “The police informed us in the afternoon that his body was in the district hospital,” said a family member.
Kaifi, an 18-year-old who sold goods at weekly markets, was also killed. “He left home in the morning and never returned. We learned of his death from the police in the evening,” said his uncle, Maroof.
The District Magistrate, Rajender Pensiya, stated, “Two deaths were caused by bullet wounds from country-made pistols, and the cause of the third death will be clear after the post-mortem.”
The violence has also led to internet shutdowns in Sambhal, along with raids on Muslim homes. Around 23 boys have reportedly been detained by the police.
The survey was completed despite the unrest. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu side, said, “The survey team conducted a detailed examination supported by videography and photography. The report will be submitted by November 29.”
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the situation, saying, “The Supreme Court should immediately take note of this conspiracy to spread tension in the name of a survey.” He added, “A case should be filed against those attempting to disrupt social harmony.”
Congress leader Ajay Rai also blamed the state government, stating, “Incidents of violence are increasing day by day under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s rule.”
However, BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli defended the survey, saying, “Nobody has the right to break the law. If a court has passed an order, it will be implemented. Legal recourse is available for those who disagree.”
The survey is rooted in a petition claiming the mosque stands on the remains of a temple demolished by Mughal Emperor Babur in 1529. Critics argue that such actions violate the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which protects the religious status of places as they were in 1947.
