Sun Nov 24 16:28:27 UTC 2024: ## Three Killed in Uttar Pradesh Mosque Survey Clash

**Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh:** Three people died and at least 15 police officers were injured Sunday in violent clashes that erupted during a court-ordered survey of a mosque in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. The survey, prompted by a complaint alleging the mosque was built on the site of a demolished temple, sparked outrage among hundreds of protesters who gathered near the Shahi Jama Masjid.

The situation escalated rapidly when protesters began throwing stones at the survey team and police. Police responded with tear gas and, according to witnesses, live fire. The deceased, identified as Nauman, Bilal, and Naim, reportedly sustained bullet wounds, though official confirmation awaits autopsy reports. Authorities confirmed the arrests of several individuals, including two women who allegedly participated in the stone-throwing from rooftops. The police also reported recovering firearms from several homes.

While the survey was ultimately completed and videographed, the ensuing violence saw vehicles set ablaze and further exchanges of gunfire. The Sambhal District Magistrate, Rajender Pensiyia, stated that the stone-pelting began after the survey’s completion, despite heightened security measures. He also mentioned that a magisterial inquiry will be conducted.

The Sambhal Superintendent of Police maintained that police only used necessary force and denied claims of security failures. An FIR has been filed and a 24-hour internet shutdown was implemented.

The survey was ordered following a complaint by Supreme Court lawyer Vishnu Shankar Jain, who alleges the mosque was constructed on the site of a demolished temple, Hari Har Mandir, in 1529. This is not the first such survey conducted at the mosque; a previous inspection occurred on November 19th. Despite prohibitory orders in place, the protest spiraled into deadly clashes. The Advocate Commission conducting the survey is scheduled to present its report to the court on November 29th. The incident has raised significant concerns about religious tensions in the region.

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