The historic Jama Masjid in Sambhal witnessed peaceful Friday prayers under heightened security. The area, steeped in Mughal history, saw prohibitory orders following claims of the mosque being constructed by partially demolishing an ancient Hindu temple site. Prompted by these claims, a court-sanctioned survey of the mosque was conducted earlier this week.
Police Flag March
Superintendent of Police (SP) Krishna Kumar Vishnoi indicated that security measures were rigorously implemented around the mosque, coordinating with forces from seven police stations. He assured that the prayers proceeded in peace, emphasizing the community's role in maintaining decorum. The authorities issued a stern warning against any potential disruptors.
District Magistrate Rajendra Pesia mentioned that gatherings of more than five individuals have been restricted in the vicinity. Mosque leaders have been asked to urge worshippers to perform prayers only at their designated mosques. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, petitioning the court, underscored that the Mughal Emperor Babur partially demolished the temple in 1529. He stated, "This is an ASI-protected site, and incursions are strictly prohibited."
Jain and his father Hari Shankar Jain have previously represented Hindu interests in cases like the Gyanvapi-Kashi Vishwanath dispute.
Arguments from the Hindu Side
Local lawyer Gopal Sharma reiterated that the petition references historical texts like "Babur's Memoirs" and "Ain-i-Akbari," highlighting this site as the Harihara Temple. Sharma mentioned the adjourned hearing is slated for January 29, with the proceedings directed by the Advocate Commissioner's findings.
Opposition's Stand
Samajwadi Party MP Zia ur Rahman Barq voiced strong disapproval of the developments. He expressed, "Sambhal's Jama Masjid is historic and ancient. The Supreme Court's 1991 decree mandates that post-1947 religious sites must retain their current status."
MP Zia ur Rahman Barq's Reaction
In response to the mosque controversy, Samajwadi Party MP Zia ur Rahman Barq decried these actions as attempts to disturb peace by external agents, stressing the breach of the Places of Worship Act. Barq lamented, "It's deeply saddening to witness outsiders disrupting Sambhal's tranquility without engaging with local voices. This stands as a direct violation of the Places of Worship Act."
Highlighting governance under constitutional and legal frameworks, he added, "We aim to govern this nation by its constitution and laws. If one religion asserts claims today, another might do the same tomorrow." Barq affirmed, "I will address this issue passionately in Parliament and take every conceivable measure to restore Sambhal's peace."
