Ancient Kalki Temple? Hindu Side's Arguments Against ASI Compel Sambhal Court To Order Survey Of Shahi Jama Masjid

A civil court in Sambhal has directed a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in response to claims that the mosque was constructed over a demolished temple during the Mughal era. The order, issued on 19 November by Civil Judge (Senior Division) Aditya Singh, appointed advocate commissioner Ramesh Raghav to carry out the survey and submit a report by 29 November.

The directive follows a plea filed by advocate Hari Shankar Jain and seven others, alleging that the mosque stands on the ruins of an ancient Kalki temple, dedicated to the prophesied final incarnation of Vishnu. The plaintiffs argue that the site was forcibly converted into a mosque in 1529 on the orders of the first Mughal emperor, Babar.

The court emphasised the importance of obtaining a factual report to aid in adjudicating the case. "In the interest of justice, Application 8C is accepted with the condition that the appointed Advocate Commissioner conduct photography and videography during the survey and submit an incident report to the court," the order stated.

Recognised as a historic monument on Sambhal district’s official website, the mosque’s caretaking committee is accused of unlawfully using the site and denying access to Hindu worshippers.

The plaintiffs claim that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has failed to facilitate public entry, as required under Section 18 of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act 1958.

The plaintiffs also argue that the site falls under the protection of the Ancient Monuments Preservation Act 1904. According to Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, representing the petitioners, the ASI’s inaction has allowed the site’s original purpose as a temple to be obscured.

The court’s order has drawn significant attention due to the historical and religious sensitivities involved. Meanwhile, the legal and historical debates surrounding the Shahi Jama Masjid continue to unfold, echoing similar disputes over religious sites across the country.