Three people were killed, and over 20 police officers were injured in violence during a court-ordered survey of the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday. The victims, Naeem, Bilal, and Noman, died after clashes broke out. Around 20 to 22 police officers, including senior officials, sustained injuries. The police also detained 15 individuals in connection with the violence.
Protest Turns Violent as Locals Clash with Police
The second survey of the Mughal-era mosque began at 7 a.m. as part of a court-ordered examination of the disputed site. Initially, the crowd shouted slogans, but tensions escalated when some began pelting stones at the police. Police responded with minor force and tear gas. The survey team was escorted out safely as stone pelters attacked from three directions. The attackers also tried to vandalize and set vehicles on fire. Gunfire broke out during the incident, killing three youths and injuring several police officers.
Strict Action Imposed Amid Ongoing Unrest
District Magistrate Rajendra Painsia confirmed the survey had begun peacefully and was intended to avoid disruptions during prayer times. The police imposed Section 144 to control the situation. Sambhal’s Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi vowed strict action against the rioters and those who incited violence. The Jamia Committee cooperated with the survey process, while All India Muslim Jamaat Chief Shahbuddin Razvi Barelvi urged the community to maintain peace. The Supreme Court had ordered the survey following a petition claiming the mosque was originally a Hindu temple.
Also Read: Hemant Soren To Take Oath As Jharkhand CM For Fourth Time On Nov 28
To read more such news, download Bharat Express news apps
