Supreme Court Halts Sambhal Mosque Survey Amid Tensions

Supreme Court seeks peace, halts Sambhal mosque survey; High Court to review next.

The Supreme Court has intervened in the escalating dispute over the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, temporarily halting all actions related to a survey ordered by a local court. The mosque is at the center of a legal and social controversy, with claims suggesting it stands on the site of an ancient Hindu temple. The apex court emphasized the need for peace and harmony and instructed that the case must first be reviewed by the High Court before any proceedings resume in the trial court, scheduled for January 2025.

Background and Legal Developments

The dispute began with a petition alleging that the Shahi Jama Masjid was constructed over a temple dedicated to Lord Harihar. Following the petition, a local court in Sambhal directed an Advocate Commission to survey the site, including videography and photography. This action sparked unrest, with objections from the mosque committee and opposition parties who argued the move violated the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which maintains the status quo of religious sites as of August 15, 1947.

Violence and Public Reactions

The situation turned violent on November 24, 2024, during the second survey attempt. Protests erupted, leading to clashes between security forces and demonstrators. The unrest resulted in three deaths, injuries to several policemen, and significant property damage. Protesters reportedly resorted to stone-pelting and attempted arson, while police responded with tear gas and minor force to disperse the crowd.

The Samajwadi Party accused the ruling BJP of orchestrating the controversy to polarize communities for political gains. Party leader Akhilesh Yadav criticized the timing of the survey and questioned the administration’s motives. The BJP refuted these allegations, emphasizing that the survey was a court-mandated procedure.

Administrative Measures

In response to the violence, the district administration imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, restricting public gatherings. Internet services were suspended in the affected areas to curb misinformation. Law enforcement has detained multiple individuals under the stringent National Security Act (NSA) and is closely monitoring the situation to prevent further escalation.

Call for Judicial Oversight

Amid the controversy, several civil society groups and political parties have called for a judicial probe to ensure impartiality and prevent misuse of the issue for political purposes. Religious leaders have also urged the public to maintain peace and allow the judiciary to resolve the matter.

What Lies Ahead

The Supreme Court’s intervention provides temporary relief, but the controversy underscores the sensitivity of religious disputes in India. The High Court’s upcoming decision will play a critical role in determining the legal status of the site, with broader implications for communal harmony and the application of the Places of Worship Act.

This case highlights the delicate balance between historical claims and contemporary legal frameworks, demanding restraint and respect for judicial processes to avoid exacerbating social divisions.

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