Sambhal Violence: Four Dead, 21 Detained After Mob Pelts Stone At Jama Masjid Survey Team—Here's What We Know So Far

A day after violence near the Shahi Jama Masjid in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal, Moradabad Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Muniraj G claimed the current situation is peaceful and the shops are open.

As a precautionary measure, a sector scheme has been implemented. The last rites of the three people, who were confirmed dead last night, have already been done, while a fourth injured person died while receiving treatment at Moradabad today (25 November).

The deceased were identified as Naeem from Kot Kurvi, Bilal from Sarai Tareen, and Numan from Hayat Nagar and Ayan. They died due to bullet injuries sustained during the clashes, while the post-mortem of the fourth person will be done today.

The internet remains suspended today and will be resumed tomorrow if the situation remains normal. A few companies of Rapid Action Force (RAF) have been deployed while the police is trying to trace the accused through photos and videos.

21 people have been detained till now and four First Information Reports (FIR) have been registered. Violence erupted when a court-ordered survey team arrived to inspect the mosque and the mob started pelting stones on them.

At least 20 police officers sustained injuries during clashes, including the Superintendent of Police's (SP) public relations officer. Three groups exchanged fire during the unrest as per Moradabad Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh.

Police emphasised that police neither fired directly at civilians, nor used firerams but only pellet guns. Those who died due to bullet injuries were shot by some other groups. The autopsy reports confirmed gunshot wounds from a .315 bore weapon.

The clashes followed a second court-mandated survey at the mosque, linked to claims that a temple previously stood at the site before being demolished in the 16th century. The first survey was completed on 19 November.

The petition, filed by senior advocate Vishnu Shanker Jain, claims that Mughal king Babar partially demolished the Harihar temple in 1529 and constructed the mosque. Jain highlighted the historical and religious significance of the alleged Harihar temple.