Mon Nov 25 01:25:59 UTC 2024: ## Three Dead in Uttar Pradesh Mosque Survey Clash

**Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, India –** Violent clashes erupted in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, today during a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Jama Masjid, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to over 30 police officers. The survey, part of a legal battle claiming the mosque was built on the site of a Hindu temple, sparked unrest when a large crowd gathered and attempted to prevent the survey team’s access.

The crowd, numbering nearly 1,000, threw stones at police, who responded with tear gas. More than ten vehicles were set ablaze during the ensuing chaos. Those killed have been identified as Naeem, Bilal, and Nauman. The injured police officers included the Superintendent of Police’s gunner. Fifteen people, including three women, have been arrested.

The survey, which began at 7:30 AM, proceeded despite the violence and is scheduled to have its report submitted by November 29th. Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain stated that the team completed a thorough examination of the site, including videography and photography, as per court orders. Schools in Sambhal and surrounding areas have been closed until November 25th.

The incident has ignited political outrage. Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) allegedly showing police firing on the crowd, a claim denied by Sambhal police. Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP government of orchestrating the unrest as a distraction from recent electoral issues. SP MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq criticized the survey, citing the Places of Worship Act of 1991, which protects the status quo of religious sites as they existed in 1947.

Tensions have been high since a similar survey was conducted on Tuesday. Petitioners supporting the survey cite historical texts like the Baburnama and Ain-i-Akbari, which allegedly document the destruction of a Hindu temple at the site by Mughal emperor Babur in 1529. Opponents argue the survey is a provocation violating the sanctity of religious places. The incident continues to draw strong reactions from various political and community groups.

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