Petition claims Sambhal Jama masjid built on temple, Court orders survey

Uttar Pradesh: A petition has been filed in the Sambhal district court, claiming that the Sambhal Jama Masjid in Uttar Pradesh was constructed on the remains of a Hindu temple. Senior advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, known for representing high-profile cases like the Krishna Janmabhoomi and Gyanvapi disputes, presented the petition. He argued that the mosque was built over the ruins of the Shri Hari Mandir, which he believes was partially destroyed by Mughal emperor Babur in 1529 before constructing the Jama Masjid.

In a media interaction, Jain suggested that the site is sacred, with many believing it to be the location of the Kalki avatar's arrival. He also asserted that the mosque’s structure contains Hindu symbols and signs, pointing to its temple origins. Following the petition, the district court ordered a survey of the Jama Masjid, to be conducted under the supervision of an advocate commissioner.

The survey was carried out with the assistance of the district magistrate, superintendent of police, and a significant police presence. However, members of the Jama Masjid committee, after the survey, denied finding any evidence supporting the petition's claims. They stated that no objects or symbols resembling a Hindu temple were discovered during the inspection.

The court has given the survey team seven days to submit its final report.