The Sambhal court is set to hear the Jama Masjid-Harihar Temple case on March 5. This comes despite the Supreme Court’s directive instructing all lower courts to refrain from accepting new cases requesting surveys of places of worship until further notice. The directive aims to maintain legal uniformity and prevent an influx of similar suits across courts. The outcome of this case may hold significant implications for such disputes.
A local court scheduled the next hearing in the case related to the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid and its survey in Chandausi for March 5.
Shakil Ahmad Wari, the advocate representing the Muslim side, informed reporters,
“The Supreme Court has instructed all lower courts not to entertain new suits seeking surveys of any place of worship until further notice. We have submitted a copy of this order in court, which set March 5 as the next date for the hearing.”
Regarding the claims from the Hindu side that the mosque was built over an ancient Harihar temple, Wari stated,
“It is up to the court to make that determination. We will demonstrate in court that it was not a Harihar temple, but rather the Jama Masjid. We have all the evidence to support our case.”
Tensions in Sambhal have been on the rise since November 19 of last year, when a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid commenced following allegations that a Harihar temple once existed at the site.
The situation escalated on November 24 during the second survey, leading to violent clashes between protesters and security forces. The subsequent stone-pelting and arson resulted in the deaths of four individuals and injuries to many others.
The Jama Masjid-Harihar Temple case in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, involves a dispute over the religious identity of a site claimed by both Hindu and Muslim communities.
The controversy centers on whether the site historically functioned as a Jama Masjid (mosque) or a Harihar Temple. Petitions have been filed in court, with parties seeking clarity and even surveys to determine the site’s historical and religious significance.
The case has drawn attention due to its sensitive nature, igniting similar disputes over religious sites in India. Adding to the complexity, the Supreme Court has recently directed lower courts not to entertain new cases seeking surveys of places of worship until further notice, which could impact the proceedings.
The Sambhal court is set to hear the matter on March 5.
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