Ujjain Shahi Masjid Faces Partial Demolition Threat as Muslims Gather to Oppose Action

Ujjain: Tension has gripped the historic city of Ujjain following renewed opposition to the proposed removal of a portion of the Shahi Masjid as part of a road widening project ahead of the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh.

According to reports, a heavy police presence was deployed around the mosque after machinery was brought to the area late at night. Following the development, hundreds of local Muslims gathered at the mosque and began staying there in shifts, seeking to prevent any immediate demolition action.

The mosque has remained surrounded by barricades and security personnel, while worshippers have continued offering prayers at the site. Local members of the mosque committee have reportedly organised round the clock presence inside the premises.

The proposed road widening involves expanding the road to 15 metres. According to the petitioners, the portion identified for removal includes part of the prayer hall, a 120 foot minaret and the Mazhar Chowk Shahi. The Shahi Masjid is located close to the Mahakaleshwar Temple and the Kshipra River. The mosque is also registered as a Waqf property, according to court records.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court, however, dismissed two petitions challenging the demolition notices on September 9. The court held that the municipal authorities had followed the applicable legal procedure and had provided an opportunity for the mosque administrators to raise objections. It also referred to the expected arrival of crores of devotees for Simhastha Kumbh 2028 and the need for traffic management and public safety.

The court further noted that the mosque is almost opposite the Mahakaleshwar Temple and close to the Kshipra River. It rejected the petitioners’ contention that the proposed action amounted to unconstitutional or discriminatory treatment.

Meanwhile, local residents and Muslim organisations have continued to oppose the proposed action. Mufti Junaid, speaking amid the ongoing protest, reportedly expressed concern that the removal of the mosque could create a precedent for action against other religious structures in the area. He also questioned the need to remove religious structures in the name of preparations for a major public event.

The protesters have said they intend to pursue the matter through legal and constitutional channels. Reports indicate that representatives of the mosque administration are considering approaching the Supreme Court against the High Court order.

The dispute has intensified as preparations continue for the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh, with authorities citing road infrastructure, traffic management and public safety, while mosque representatives and local residents are seeking protection for the religious structure.

The situation around the Shahi Masjid remains closely watched, with security personnel deployed in the area and local residents continuing their peaceful presence at the mosque.