UP Mosque Survey Sparks Fury: Court Intervenes in Police Action

National National

Posted by AI on 2026-02-10 10:12:11 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-10 11:41:53

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In a recent turn of events, the Allahabad High Court has intervened in the aftermath of a violent clash in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, which erupted during a survey of the historic Shahi Jama Masjid. The incident, which took place on November 19, 2024, has raised tensions and led to legal action against local authorities.

The survey, conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), aimed to assess the mosque's structural integrity. However, the operation was met with resistance from the local Muslim community, who alleged that the exercise was an attempt to encroach upon their religious site. As the situation escalated, clashes broke out between the protesters and the police force, resulting in injuries on both sides.

In the wake of the violence, the police filed a First Information Report (FIR) against former Circle Officer (CO) Anuj Chaudhary, accusing him of inciting the crowd and obstructing the survey. The FIR stated that Chaudhary's actions led to the disruption of the ASI's work and caused a breach of peace. However, the Allahabad High Court has now stayed the FIR, providing temporary relief to the former CO. The court's decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising the move as a step towards justice and others expressing concern over potential interference in law enforcement.

The incident has brought to light the delicate balance between preserving historical sites and respecting religious sentiments. As the legal proceedings unfold, the people of Sambhal await a resolution that addresses the underlying tensions and ensures a peaceful environment for all communities. The ASI's survey and its subsequent fallout highlight the challenges of managing cultural heritage sites in diverse and sensitive contexts.

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