New Delhi: The highly anticipated survey report of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, is nearing completion and is slated for submission to the court in early January 2025. This announcement by court-appointed commissioner Advocate Ramesh Singh Raghav comes amidst a backdrop of significant controversy and violence that has gripped the town.
Amid the tense atmosphere surrounding the issue, the report is expected to be submitted on either January 2nd or 3rd. “The survey report of Shahi Jama Masjid is almost in the final stage and complete. There are some technical issues, which will be adjusted today. As it is the last working day of the court after which it will close. As far as the survey report is concerned, it will be filed on January 2 or 3. There is a stay order of the Supreme Court to the trial court not to take any action till January 6 hence the survey report will be filed before this date,” Raghav told media persons.
The order for the mosque’s survey was issued on November 19th by the local court, following a plea by the Hindu side alleging that the mosque was constructed by Mughal emperor Babur in 1526 after the demolition of a pre-existing temple.
The second round of the survey, undertaken on November 24th, spiralled into major violence as protesting locals clashed with security personnel. This shocking escalation resulted in four fatalities and injuries to dozens of others, including police officers and soldiers.
The violence prompted immediate intervention from the Supreme Court. On November 29th, the apex court issued a stay order, directing the Sambhal trial court to halt all proceedings related to the survey until January 6th. The UP government has also been instructed to ensure the maintenance of peace and harmony.
