Four people lost their lives, and several others, including 20 police personnel, were injured during violent clashes in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday. The violence erupted as hundreds of protesters opposed a survey being conducted at a local mosque. Authorities have since enforced strict security measures, imposed prohibitory orders, shut down educational institutions, and suspended internet services in the area.

Background of the Conflict

The survey, carried out under a court directive, stems from a complaint alleging that the Shahi Jama Masjid was built on the site of a demolished temple during the Mughal era. The controversy dates back to a petition asserting that a Harihar temple was destroyed in 1529 by Mughal Emperor Babur to construct the mosque.

The Advocate Commission began the first survey on November 19, but it remained incomplete. The second attempt on Sunday triggered widespread unrest, with protesters resorting to stone pelting and setting vehicles ablaze. Law enforcement responded with tear gas to control the situation, leading to hours of turmoil starting at 7 a.m.

Details of the Violence

The clashes saw shots fired by the protesters, resulting in serious injuries to law enforcement officials. One officer sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, another was injured by pellets, and several others, including a deputy collector, suffered fractures and head injuries.

Visual footage showed demonstrators hurling stones from rooftops near the mosque and setting fires, while police were later seen dispersing crowds in narrow lanes.

The deceased were identified as Nauman, Bilal, Naim, and Mohd Kaif. Allegations that the victims died from police gunfire have been made, but authorities said the exact causes of death would be determined after autopsies.

Administrative Actions

To prevent further escalation, the administration has banned public gatherings under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, prohibited the purchase or storage of potentially dangerous items like stones and flammable materials, and restricted the entry of outsiders and public figures into the area until November 30. Internet services have been suspended for 24 hours, and schools and colleges remain closed.

The district administration has confirmed that those responsible for the violence will face legal action, including charges under the stringent National Security Act (NSA). Twenty-one individuals, including two women, have been detained.

Political Reactions

The incident has sparked a political blame game. Opposition parties, including the Congress and Samajwadi Party, criticized the ruling BJP for mishandling the situation. Congress accused the government of orchestrating the violence as part of a conspiracy, while Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav alleged it was an attempt to divert attention from other issues, such as electoral malpractice.

In response, BJP leaders accused the INDIA alliance of instigating unrest after setbacks in the Lok Sabha elections. The party urged protesters to respect judicial orders and take legal recourse if needed.

Next Steps

The survey at the mosque was completed amidst the unrest, and a magisterial inquiry has been ordered to investigate the incident. Supreme Court lawyer Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the Hindu petitioners, has requested the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to take control of the disputed site. Local lawyer Gopal Sharma reiterated the claim that the mosque replaced a temple demolished in the 16th century.

Authorities remain on high alert as tensions continue in the region.