The Supreme Court on Friday directed the trial court in Uttar Pradesh to suspend proceedings in the case until the Sambhal Shahi Jama Masjid Committee approaches the Allahabad High Court.
A Bench comprising Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar was hearing a petition filed by the mosque committee challenging a civil court order that authorized a survey of the mosque to determine whether it was constructed on the ruins of a temple. The survey sparked violent clashes in Sambhal on November 24, leading to the deaths of four people and injuries to several others, including police officers.
The Supreme Court also instructed the district administration to take necessary steps to ensure peace and maintain order in the region during this period. While refraining from commenting on the merits of the case, the court decided to put the mosque committee’s petition on hold.
The mosque committee contended that the survey order was issued ex parte and rushed through in an ongoing suit. They informed the court that the Mughal-era mosque is protected under the Places of Worship Act, 1991. The Hindu plaintiffs claimed that Mughal emperor Babar constructed the mosque in 1526 after demolishing a “Harihar Temple.”
The matter is now scheduled for further hearing in the week beginning January 6, 2025.
A large contingent of police has been deployed around the Shahi Jama Masjid for Friday prayers. The situation in the area is reportedly normal, with people walking on the streets and schools remaining open. However, internet services have been suspended to prevent the spread of misinformation.
(With agency inputs)