The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has filed a petition in court asserting its right to manage and control the historic Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, designated as a protected heritage structure since 1920. This move follows a court-approved survey of the mosque, which has ignited controversy and protests among locals, reports the Hindustan Times.
ASI’s legal representative, Vishnu Sharma, argued that the mosque falls under the agency’s jurisdiction and must comply with heritage preservation laws. Sharma noted resistance from the mosque’s management committee and locals during the surveys, as reported by PTI. He also highlighted a 2018 incident where an FIR was filed against the mosque’s management for installing steel railings without obtaining proper authorization.
The ASI expressed concerns about unauthorized alterations to the site, emphasizing that public access and any structural modifications must adhere to its guidelines. “All control and management of the site must remain with the ASI to ensure compliance with heritage protection laws,” Sharma stated.
The situation escalated on November 24 during a second survey of the mosque, reportedly claimed by some as the site of an ancient Hindu temple. At least six Muslim youths were killed during protests, allegedly in police firing. Families of the deceased and mosque authorities maintain that the deaths resulted from police action, while District Magistrate Chirag Goyal countered these claims, attributing the fatalities to gunfire from fellow protesters.
The protests were further exacerbated by the presence of a Hindutva group accompanying the survey team. The incident has deepened communal tensions, raising questions about the balance between heritage preservation and the rights of local communities.
The Shahi Jama Masjid issue mirrors growing disputes over religious sites in India. Experts and activists warn that such conflicts could set a precedent for increased claims and surveys of mosques and other religious monuments across the country.
This development underscores the need for sensitive handling of heritage disputes to preserve historical structures while respecting the sentiments of local communities. The case remains under judicial scrutiny as tensions in Sambhal persist.
