Sambhal violence: 3-member judicial committee investigates after clashes over Jama Masjid survey

A three-member judicial inquiry committee has started investigating the violence that occurred on November 24 in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, during a court-ordered survey of the Jama Masjid. The violence, which resulted in the deaths of four people and injuries to several others, including officials and locals, occurred when clashes broke out as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted its examination of the mosque. The survey was ordered by the local court after a petition claimed that the mosque was originally a Hindu Harihar temple. The committee, headed by former Allahabad High Court judge Devendra Kumar Arora, has been tasked with determining whether the violence was premeditated and is required to submit its report within the next two months.

Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed that the situation in Sambhal is currently calm, and authorities are monitoring the area closely. Security forces have been deployed throughout the region to ensure public safety and assist with the investigation. The committee members visited the violence-affected area, met with locals and officials, and gathered evidence as part of their inquiry. Singh emphasized that additional security measures would be implemented if necessary to maintain peace.

The Jama Masjid, a Mughal-era mosque, is a protected heritage site under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) since 1920. The ASI has raised concerns about unauthorized alterations to the mosque by its management committee and has filed a response in court requesting control over the mosque's management. In its response, the ASI argued that structural changes or alterations to the mosque should only be made with ASI approval, and public access to the mosque should be regulated according to ASI guidelines. The mosque's management committee and local residents have opposed the ASI's efforts to conduct a survey of the site.

The violence in Sambhal began to escalate after the local court’s order for the survey on November 19. Protestors clashed with police during the survey, leading to four deaths. On November 24, further violence broke out during the ASI's examination of the mosque, involving a stone-pelting incident that resulted in additional casualties. As of now, 27 people, including 25 men and two women, have been arrested, and seven FIRs have been registered by the police in connection with the incidents. The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the violence.

The Supreme Court of India intervened in the case on November 29, directing the local court to halt any further proceedings regarding the Jama Masjid survey until the petition filed by the mosque’s management committee is reviewed by the High Court. The Supreme Court also ordered that the report of the advocate commissioner, who conducted the survey, be kept sealed. Meanwhile, local authorities have conducted a flag march in the area to demonstrate the presence of law enforcement and reassure the public. Security forces continue to be stationed at key points in Sambhal to maintain order and prevent further violence.