Tensions Escalate in Indian City Following Violent Mosque Survey Clashes

Three fatalities reported amid growing unrest and political accusations.

Sambhal city in Uttar Pradesh is experiencing heightened tensions following violent clashes that resulted in three deaths and numerous injuries during a court-ordered survey of the historical Jama Masjid on Sunday. The unrest erupted as local authorities executed the survey after a petition claimed that the mosque was constructed on the ruins of a Hindu temple. In response to the disturbances, authorities have detained at least 21 individuals, enacted a suspension of internet services, and closed schools for a day.

Reports from the scene indicate that protesters engaged in violent acts, including torching vehicles and throwing stones at police officers. While demonstrators assert that police gunfire resulted in the deaths, police officials have denied the use of lethal force. Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar stated, "No weapons were used that could take anyone's life," as the tensions surrounding the mosque continue to grow.

This incident is part of a broader narrative involving ongoing disputes centered on historical mosques across India, where Hindu groups argue that Mughal emperors demolished temples to erect mosques. Legal disputes over these claims are currently being contested in various courts by Muslim organizations.

The unrest in Sambhal began to escalate following a court order issued last week for a video-recorded survey of the Jama Masjid, leading to accusations from local Muslim factions that they were not adequately informed about the survey. The situation further deteriorated on Sunday when a second survey sparked protests near the mosque.

As crowds gathered and began shouting slogans, police were forced to respond with tear gas and non-lethal ammunition to restore order. Top police official Aunjaneya Kumar Singh affirmed that the three deceased were identified as Naeem, Bilal, and Nauman, who suffered gunshot wounds during the violent confrontations.

Critics, including opposition leaders, have attributed the clashes to a deliberate strategy by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to incite communal tensions for political advantage, a claim that has been categorically denied by state officials. Uttar Pradesh's Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak emphasized that authorities are investigating the situation and assured that the rule of law would be upheld. Mahmood Madani, president of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, condemned the ongoing mosque disputes, underscoring that they contravene Indian legislation and social harmony.