Sambhal erupts in violence during Jama Masjid survey; 3 dead, vehicles torched

Tension engulfed Sambhal Sunday morning as a court-ordered survey of the historic Mughal-era Jama Masjid spiraled into violent clashes, leaving at least three dead and several injured.

- BISWAJEET BANERJEE

The mosque, embroiled in a legal dispute over claims that it was built atop a Hindu temple, has become a flashpoint for communal unrest.

Tensions escalated when a crowd of nearly 1,000 gathered outside the mosque, determined to block the survey team—led by an "Advocate Commissioner"—from entering. What began as a stand-off quickly turned violent, with stone-pelting targeting police, prompting them to respond with tear gas.

Amid the turmoil, over ten vehicles were set ablaze, and the scene descended into chaos. "Some miscreants in the crowd resorted to violence, forcing us to use minor force and tear gas to restore order. Those responsible will be identified and face strict action," said Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Vishnoi.