Violence Erupts During Protest Against Sambhal Mosque Survey; Three Dead and Many Injured

Three individuals lost their lives, and many others, including about 20 security personnel and four administrative staff, were injured during clashes between protesters and police. The unrest erupted over a court-mandated survey of a Mughal-era mosque. Protesters set vehicles ablaze and hurled stones at the police, who responded with tear gas and batons to control the situation.

Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh reported that shots were fired by the miscreants. The PRO of the superintendent of police sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, while a police circle officer was hit by pellets. Additionally, 15 to 20 security personnel were injured in the violence. A constable suffered a severe head injury, and the deputy collector fractured his leg.

Internet Services Suspended Amidst Tensions

In response to the escalating tensions, internet services in Sambhal tehsil have been suspended for 24 hours. The district administration also declared a holiday on November 25 for all students up to Class 12. Images circulating on social media depicted protesters throwing stones at police officers from rooftops and in front of the Shahi Jama Masjid.

Visuals showed police cornering and hitting people as they attempted to disperse a large crowd in a narrow alleyway. Another clip showed police personnel in riot gear firing gunshots towards a lane while flames and smoke filled the air. Superintendent of Police Krishan Kumar was seen urging stone-pelters not to engage in violence, saying through his megaphone, "Do not spoil your future for these politicians."

Police Refute Allegations of Lethal Force

Kumar addressed reporters, refuting claims that police had opened fire with lethal weapons. He stated, "Police have used pellet guns. No weapons were used that could take anyone's life." He confirmed that 21 people have been detained and various weapons recovered from them. Shells of different bores were found at the firing site.

Weapons were also discovered in homes of those detained. Firing reportedly occurred from a house in Nakhasa police station area, leading to the detention of two women. Tensions have been rising since Tuesday when the Jama Masjid was surveyed following a petition claiming a Harihar temple once stood there.

Investigation Underway Following Fatalities

The deceased individuals have been identified as Naeem, Bilal, and Nauman. Singh stated that 21 people, including two women, are detained as investigations continue. Those involved in the violence will face charges under the National Security Act (NSA). The cause of death for two victims is confirmed as bullet wounds from country-made pistols; however, the third person's cause remains unclear pending post-mortem results.

The unrest began on Sunday morning when a large crowd gathered near Shahi Jama Masjid as the survey team commenced work. District officials noted that Sunday's survey was planned to avoid interference with afternoon prayers after an incomplete attempt on Tuesday.

Authorities Appeal for Calm

Kumar later assured reporters that peace had returned to the area. Internet services will remain closed for one day in Sambhal tehsil. An FIR has been filed at Sambhal Police Station, and injured policemen are providing statements.

A constable with a head injury has been sent to Meerut Medical College in critical condition. Singh elaborated on the incident, explaining that stone-pelting began as the survey team was leaving. Groups attacked from three sides: front, right, and left.

Police used force to ensure safe escort of the survey team, deploying tear gas shells and plastic bullets. Singh described it as an act of provocation resulting in loss of life and urged people to maintain peace.

Court-Ordered Survey Sparks Controversy

The survey was conducted under court orders without tampering with mosque structures. However, stones were thrown at the mosque during clashes. Efforts are underway to identify those who incited violence.

Supreme Court lawyer Vishnu Shankar Jain explained that an Advocate Commission was appointed by Court of Civil Judge Senior Division for mosque survey through videography and photography. Jain urged Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to take control of the temple site.

Local lawyer Gopal Sharma claimed Mughal Emperor Babur demolished a temple at this location in 1529.