AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticized the court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, questioning the decision given the nature of the petition. He argued that if the plea sought only access to the mosque, there was no need for a survey. The Hyderabad MP pointed out that such actions contradict the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which prohibits altering the character of religious places as they stood on August 15, 1947.
Owaisi further linked the controversy to broader patterns of communal disputes, referencing a recent petition in Rajasthan that questioned the religious identity of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah. He highlighted the dargah’s historical significance, noting that it has been a revered Sufi shrine for 800 years and has been acknowledged by leaders across political lines, including annual offerings of ‘chadar’ by prime ministers during its ‘Urs.’
On the larger impact of such disputes, Owaisi said, “These issues weaken our country, which is already grappling with inflation, unemployment, and other crises. The focus should be on addressing real challenges rather than stirring communal tensions.”
Addressing recent comments by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat about India’s Total Fertility Rate (TFR), Owaisi responded sarcastically, suggesting that RSS members should lead by example and marry if they are concerned about population growth. He also criticized the BJP for contradictory stances, pointing out that some BJP leaders have advocated denying government benefits to families with more than two children. “They should stick to one policy,” he said.
The Supreme Court has since intervened, halting the trial court’s proceedings in the Sambhal mosque case and directing the Uttar Pradesh government to ensure peace in the area following the violent clashes on November 24 that claimed six lives.
