Sun Nov 24 15:14:48 UTC 2024: ## Sambhal Mosque Survey Turns Violent: Police Clash with Protesters, NSA Action Promised

**Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, India:** A survey team conducting a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, was attacked by a violent mob on Sunday, November 24th. The incident escalated quickly, with rioters setting fire to several vehicles. Police responded with tear gas and lathi charges to quell the unrest. Videos of the clashes and the aftermath have gone viral on social media.

One widely circulated video shows Sambhal Superintendent of Police (SP) Krishna Kumar addressing the crowd, urging them to avoid violence and not to “waste their future following these leaders.” Despite his pleas, the mob continued to pelt stones at police officers.

SP Kumar, who sustained minor injuries in the incident, along with several of his officers, confirmed that those involved in the violence, including those who attacked police and engaged in stone-throwing and firing, will be arrested and face stringent action under the National Security Act (NSA). He also stated that all CCTV footage is being reviewed to identify and prosecute those responsible. The SP reported that his gunner suffered a back injury, and he himself sustained a foot injury.

The violence stems from a claim by Mahant Rishiraj Giri Maharaj of the Kaladevi Temple that the Jama Masjid is actually the ancient Harihar Temple. Giri Maharaj filed a petition in civil court demanding a survey, which the court ordered within seven days. The survey team arrived Sunday morning and was attacked as a crowd gathered.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has accused the authorities of deliberately instigating the violence in Sambhal. The situation is currently under control, according to police.

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