Sambhal Mosque Violence: 3 Dead, Dozens Injured as Clashes Erupt During Court-Ordered Survey
Violence rocked Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district on Sunday, leaving three people dead and dozens injured, including 24 police and administrative personnel. The unrest broke out during a court-mandated survey of the historic Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid, as tensions escalated into stone-pelting, arson, and gunfire.
Key Developments
Fatal Clashes and Injuries
The violence turned deadly when bullets were fired by miscreants, leaving two individuals fatally wounded by country-made firearms. A third casualty remains under investigation pending post-mortem results. Among the injured were senior police officers, including a circle officer and the SP’s PRO, who suffered gunshot wounds, and a constable with a severe head injury.
Police Measures and Public Safety
To contain the chaos, police deployed tear gas, batons, and non-lethal plastic bullets. Internet services in the district were suspended, and all schools were ordered to remain closed on November 25. Authorities also restricted entry into Sambhal, barring outsiders, social organizations, and public representatives without prior permission.
Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar urged calm and warned against politicizing the situation. “Strict action will be taken against those who disrupt peace,” he stated.
Detentions and Seized Weapons
Police detained 21 individuals linked to the violence, including two women accused of allowing gunfire from their residence. Multiple weapons, including bullet casings of varying calibers, were recovered. Authorities confirmed that those arrested will face charges under the stringent National Security Act (NSA).
Court-Mandated Survey Sparks Unrest
The Shahi Jama Masjid survey was conducted following a court directive based on a petition claiming the mosque was built on the ruins of a Harihar temple demolished by Mughal emperor Babur in 1529. To prevent disruption of prayers, Sunday was chosen for the survey. However, tensions boiled over, leading to the violent confrontation.
Escalation Caught on Camera
Videos circulating on social media showed mobs pelting stones and hurling objects from rooftops surrounding the mosque. Police used force to ensure the safe evacuation of the survey team, firing tear gas and non-lethal projectiles to control the unruly crowd.
Government Response and Next Steps
Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed the use of firearms by the mob, emphasizing that the administration is taking firm steps to restore peace. He assured that those responsible for the violence will be prosecuted.
The tragic incident has heightened tensions in the region, with authorities calling for restraint and cooperation from all communities. As investigations continue, officials have vowed to hold accountable anyone found guilty of inciting or participating in the unrest.
This latest escalation underscores the growing sensitivities surrounding heritage sites and religious structures, placing a renewed focus on maintaining communal harmony amid disputes.
