The ASI team has been instructed to assess the mosque’s condition, focusing on the main structure and premises. They must submit their report to the court by 10 AM on February 28.
Allahabad: Today, 27th Feb, The Allahabad High Court instructed the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to inspect the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal to determine whether it requires whitewashing and painting. This decision came after the mosque management committee sought permission to carry out the maintenance work before Ramzan.
A single-judge bench of Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal passed the order, directing the ASI to form a three-member team to visit the site.
The ASI team has been instructed to assess the mosque’s condition, focusing on the main structure and premises. They must submit their report to the court by 10 AM on February 28.
The ASI has expressed concerns about the safety of its survey team and has asked for security arrangements before proceeding with the inspection. The request comes in light of previous security challenges faced during similar surveys.
Senior Advocate SFA Naqvi, representing the mosque management, criticized the ASI for not taking proper care of the mosque.
He stated that “the ASI has neglected the maintenance work despite the mosque being under their protection.”
The ASI, in response, denied the allegations and argued that their officials were not allowed inside the mosque by the management.
The ASI stated that “our team was prevented from entering the premises by the mosque officials.”
Background
The Jama Masjid in Sambhal has been at the center of a major dispute, which even led to violent clashes in November 2024. During that time, a mob of local Muslims attacked police personnel and created chaos over a court-ordered survey of the structure.
On the other hand, some Hindu groups have been demanding a survey of the site, claiming that the mosque was built over an ancient Hindu temple. This issue has fueled tensions in the region, making any official action on the mosque highly sensitive.
CASE TITLE:
Committee Of Management, Jami Masjid Sambhal Ahmed v Hari Shankar Jaun & Ors
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