Meerut: An Archaeological Survey of India team reported that two men stopped them from entering the central dome of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal during a routine inspection. Officials said the men also misbehaved with them. The team filed a complaint with the police. An FIR was registered under sections 132, 352, and 351(2) of the BNS against Hafiz and Mohammad Qasim Khan.
Police said the investigation is underway. The imam of the Sadar Shahi Jama Masjid, Zafar Ali, stated that the two accused were not members of the mosque committee. He said they were local residents who had arrived to offer namaz. He added that one of them works as a sweeper and the mosque committee has no link to the incident. He said the committee is cooperating with the probe.
The episode has drawn attention because the mosque witnessed violence last year during a court-directed survey of the 16th century structure. Hundreds of locals clashed with police on November 24, which led to the death of at least five people. The atmosphere around the mosque remains tense due to previous confrontations. Monday’s obstruction during the ASI visit has raised concerns among local leaders and law enforcement about the need for clear communication during official inspections.
