Date: May 19, 2025
Location: Allahabad/Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh
Author: News Desk
The Allahabad High Court has upheld a lower court's decision to conduct a survey of the historic Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, marking a significant development in the ongoing legal battle surrounding the site.
Background of the Dispute
The legal dispute was initiated by a group of Hindu petitioners who claimed that the Shahi Jama Masjid—constructed in 1526 during the reign of Mughal emperor Babur—was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s prophesied avatar, Kalki. The petitioners requested access to the site and a survey to ascertain the historical structure's origins.
In November 2024, a Sambhal district court allowed the appointment of an advocate commissioner to survey the mosque premises. This order was challenged by the mosque’s management committee, which alleged that the directive was issued without adequate notice and lacked legal basis.
High Court’s Verdict
On Monday, Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal of the Allahabad High Court rejected the mosque committee’s plea, stating that the trial court had not committed any error in granting leave under Section 80(2) of the Civil Procedure Code. The judge affirmed that there was no procedural violation and ruled that the survey may continue.
“No prejudice was caused to the defendant by the appointment of the advocate commissioner,” the court observed.
Key Developments
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First Survey Conducted: The initial survey took place on November 19, 2024.
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Second Survey & Clashes: A second round followed on November 24, 2024, which triggered communal unrest and led to at least four reported fatalities.
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ASI Involvement: On February 27, 2025, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) submitted a preliminary report suggesting several renovations had taken place at the site, including flooring changes and repainting. The ASI recommended a detailed investigation to prevent possible tampering with any underlying historical remains.
Reactions and Implications
The Shahi Jama Masjid's managing committee expressed disappointment over the ruling and is reportedly considering its legal options, including approaching the Supreme Court.
The case has reignited debates over heritage, religious identity, and the legal handling of sensitive religious sites in India. The dispute echoes other high-profile cases involving contested religious locations.
About the Shahi Jama Masjid
Built nearly 500 years ago, the Shahi Jama Masjid is among the oldest surviving Mughal-era mosques in India. It is a protected monument under the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act, 1904.
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