Three people were killed and over 20 security personnel injured in violent clashes between protesters and police during a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal on Sunday. Protesters, opposing the survey, pelted stones and set vehicles ablaze, prompting police to use tear gas and batons to disperse the mob.
According to officials, shots were fired during the chaos, injuring several, including a police spokesperson and a circle officer. Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh confirmed that three individuals—Naeem, Bilal, and Nauman—died in the incident, while 10 people, including two women, were detained.
The violence erupted as the survey, ordered by a local court in response to claims that the mosque was built over a demolished Harihar temple, commenced early in the morning. The district administration had planned the survey to avoid disruption to afternoon prayers, but tensions escalated when a crowd gathered and began protesting.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP of orchestrating the violence to divert attention from electoral issues, claiming the administration provoked emotions intentionally.
Police and district officials have assured that the situation is now under control, with additional forces deployed near the mosque to maintain law and order. Investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for inciting the violence.
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