Key Highlights:
The Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, has assumed the center stage of an acrimonious legal struggle. A petition by advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain along with others alleges that a mosque was raised in the year 1529 after tearing down a pre-existing Harihar temple. This resulted in Civil Judge (Senior Division) ordering a survey of the mosque grounds on November 19, 2024.
Violence Breaks Out During Survey
The first round of survey on November 19 was carried out without any hitch. However, a second round of survey conducted on November 24 triggered clashes between the local people and the police forces. Protesters were said to have hurled stones and torched vehicles, which led to the police retaliating with tear gas. The violence claimed four lives and left many injured, including police personnel.
Judicial Intervention: Supreme Court
In response to escalating tensions, the Supreme Court directed the Shahi Idgah Masjid’s management committee to present their grievances regarding the trial court’s survey order to the Allahabad High Court. The apex court emphasized that the trial court’s directive would remain suspended until the High Court addresses the matter, underscoring the necessity of maintaining peace and harmony.
Historical Significance of Shahi Jama Masjid
Constructed in the year 1529 following orders from the Mughal Emperor Babur, Shahi Jama Masjid is one of the oldest extant mosques constructed during the Mughal period within India. The monument stands listed as a protected monument on the Ancient Monuments f 1904.
Legal and Political Consequences
The controversy has renewed the debate on the Places of Worship Act, 1991, that upholds the religious status of places as they were in 1947. Opposition parties have criticized the government for playing with the fire of communal tensions to fulfill their political objectives. Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rehman Barq opposed the survey by stating that it has harmed communal amity and it goes against the legal provisions available today.
Current Scenario and Future Prospects
The Supreme Court order has, meanwhile temporarily put a halt to the survey, thus giving a chance for judicial review in the High Court. Authorities have imposed prohibitory orders in Sambhal district that include closing schools and internet services. The situation remains delicate with community leaders and officials calling for calm and adherence to legal processes.
Conclusion
The Sambhal mosque controversy raises important questions about the very intricate play between historical claims, legal frameworks, and communal sensitivities in India. It is in this direction that the Supreme Court intends to intervene to ensure rule of law prevails amidst societal peace. The following judgments from the judiciary are crucial to resolving this highly contentious issue.
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