• By Imran Zafar
  • Sat, 30 Nov 2024 09:44 AM (IST)
  • Source:JND

Authorities maintained heightened security across Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district on Friday, the first since violent clashes erupted during the Jama Masjid survey. Over 2,000 people gathered for prayers at the mosque, entering only after presenting identification. Internet services were restored in the region on Friday after six days of suspension, but the prohibition on outsider entry remains in effect until December 10.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Krishna Kumar Vishnoi announced that no political delegations would be allowed within district boundaries. Meanwhile, Advocate Commissioner Ramesh Raghav sought additional time from the Civil Court (Senior Division) to submit the survey report, with the court granting a 10-day extension following approval from opposing counsel. The next hearing, regarding the mosque's disputed status as a Harihar temple, is scheduled for January 8.

The legal dispute stems from a case filed on November 19, when the court ordered a survey and appointed Ramesh Raghav as Advocate Commissioner. The first survey phase, involving mosque videography, was conducted on November 19, with additional footage captured the following Sunday. That day saw violent clashes resulting in four deaths and injuries to over 30 police and administrative officers. To ensure security, the district was heavily barricaded, and police were stationed throughout.

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The administration released drone footage from November 24, showing individuals setting vehicles ablaze near Jama Masjid. In the 28-second clip, several individuals are seen vandalizing bikes. Police have launched an investigation to identify the culprits and recover damages.

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Government advocate Vishnu Sharma informed the court that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) team faced resistance during a routine inspection in June 2024. The ASI had previously filed an FIR in 2018 against the mosque committee for unauthorised construction, as no modifications can be made to protected monuments without prior approval.