Arguments Presented in Sambhal Jama Masjid–Harihar Mandir Dispute; Next Hearing on December 3
Lawyers from both sides presented their arguments before the court, while the matter also remains pending before the Supreme Court.
Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh): The ongoing dispute over the Shahi Jama Masjid and the alleged Harihar Mandir site was heard in the Chandausi Civil Judge (Senior Division) Aditya Singh’s court on Thursday. Lawyers representing both parties presented their arguments, after which the court set the next hearing for December 3.
Representing the Muslim side, Advocate Shakeel Ahmad Warsi informed the court that the case is still pending before the Supreme Court, where the next hearing is scheduled for November 7. Meanwhile, Advocate Gopal Sharma, appearing for the Hindu side, said that due to an interim order issued by the Supreme Court, the lower court has postponed further proceedings until December 3.
Background of the Dispute
The controversy began on November 19, 2024, when a petition was filed by Advocates Hari Shankar Jain and Vishnu Shankar Jain, along with eight others, claiming that the Shahi Jama Masjid was built over the remains of an ancient Harihar Mandir. The first hearing in the case took place on September 25.
Following a court order, the first survey of the mosque was conducted on November 19, and a second survey was scheduled for November 24. However, violence broke out during the second survey, leaving four people dead and 29 police personnel injured.
In connection with the incident, police registered cases against several individuals, including SP (MP) Ziaur Rahman Barq and Mosque Committee Chairman Zafar Ali. An FIR was also filed against 2,750 unidentified persons.
Historical Significance
According to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Shahi Jama Masjid is about 500 years old and was declared a protected monument in 1920. The mosque is also mentioned in the Baburnama.
Advocate Zafar Ali, representing the mosque committee, stated that the structure was commissioned by Mir Baig on the orders of Mughal Emperor Babur in 1529.
