Sambhal Mosque Is Not 'Shahi Jama Masjid' In ASI Documents, But 'Juma Masjid'; Board To Be Replaced Soon

The controversy around the Sambhal mosque doesn't seem to be stopping as the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) now plans to install a new signboard, referring to the mosque as 'Juma Masjid', TNIE reported.

Notably, the local Muslims call the mosque as the Shahi Jama Masjid and the signboard reading the same is currently placed outside the mosque. However, the mosque is named as 'Juma Masjid' in the ASI documents.

The ASI board, which is blue in color and presently housed at the Satyavrat police outpost, is anticipated to be erected shortly. This will substitute the previous sign that carried the name 'Shahi Jama Masjid.'

Notably, it has been a trend to call Muslim sites with prestigious names, to attach higher importance to them. With such narratives, violence is easily instigated in the name of 'protection' of these sites.

It is pertinent to mention, that the Sambhal mosque became the epicentre of violence on 24 November 2024 during a court-ordered survey. Four civilians lost their life and dozens of policemen were injured.

Sharma mentioned that an identical blue ASI board, bearing the 'Juma Masjid' name, is already situated within the mosque's premises. The ASI has yet to make any announcements concerning when the new signboard will be installed.