Four people lost their lives, and dozens, including 24 police and administrative personnel, sustained injuries during violent clashes in Sambhal over a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Jama Masjid. The police have registered seven FIRs and arrested 25 people so far. Among those named in the FIR are Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rahman Barq and Sohail Iqbal, son of a local SP MLA, for allegedly inciting violence. Divisional Commissioner Aunjaneya Kumar Singh stated that gunshots from country-made weapons caused the fatalities. Authorities allege Barq’s earlier remarks urging the protection of the mosque escalated tensions, even though he was in Bengaluru at the time of the incident.

The survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, ordered by a local court, aimed to investigate claims that the mosque was built on the ruins of a temple allegedly demolished by Mughal emperor Babur in 1529. While the first survey concluded peacefully, the second attempt led to mob violence, including stone pelting and arson. Police suspect locals within a 10-15 km radius of the mosque participated in the attacks. District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya noted that Barq’s prior inflammatory statements had worsened the situation, prompting his inclusion in the FIR.

Political reactions have been sharp, with opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav criticizing the BJP-led state government for mishandling the situation. Rahul Gandhi accused the administration of bias and insensitivity, claiming its actions further inflamed tensions and led to the loss of lives. BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj, however, labeled the violence as “pre-planned” and blamed the opposition for stoking communal discord. The incident has reignited debates over communal harmony and the role of politics in such disputes.