Chicago – November 28, 2024
The management of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal has taken their fight to the Supreme Court, challenging a local court’s decision to allow a survey of the Mughal-era mosque. Hindus claim the mosque was built by destroying a temple, but the Muslim community argues the decision was rushed and unjust.
The mosque, in use as a place of worship since the 16th century, came under scrutiny after eight people filed a lawsuit on November 19. Shockingly, in an ex-parte order the same day, the trial court approved the survey without hearing the mosque’s side. Within hours, an Advocate Commissioner, accompanied by police and plaintiffs’ lawyers, began the study, sparking unease among local Muslims.
On November 24, the survey team returned early in the morning, forcing worshippers to leave during dawn prayers. The rushed process created fear in the area, eventually leading to protests. Tragically, violence broke out, leaving four people dead near the mosque due to gunshot wounds. Police denied firing live ammunition, claiming they used “non-lethal weapons” during stone-pelting by protesters.
Indian Muslims see these actions as part of growing suppression under Prime Minister Modi’s government, where their religious rights and places of worship are increasingly targeted.
