Jobaaj Stories
In Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, an anti-encroachment drive has led to significant discoveries and sparked a series of events involving local residents and authorities. The operation began after claims surfaced that the Jama Masjid was built on the ruins of a Hindu temple allegedly demolished during the Mughal era. This has led to tensions, violence, and increased efforts to reclaim and secure the disputed area.
Residents Demolish Their Homes
Some residents, whose houses were reportedly built by encroaching on temple property, have started demolishing their own homes. They explained that this approach allows them to recover valuables before authorities step in. “If we leave the demolition to the administration, we might not be left with anything,” a resident told The Times of India.
Authorities have deployed CCTV cameras and heavy police presence to monitor the ongoing anti-encroachment operations and maintain law and order.
Anti-Power Theft Raids Continue
Simultaneously, the Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation is conducting anti-power theft raids in the area. On Tuesday, officials installed a smart meter at the house of Samajwadi Party MP Zia-Ur Rahman, who faces allegations of illegal construction. Raids in Sambhal have uncovered electricity theft in dozens of homes, leading to fines totaling ₹1.3 crore. Police security has been requested to ensure the safety of power department officials during these operations.
Reopening of Shri Kartik Mahadev Temple
During the anti-encroachment drive, authorities discovered an ancient Shiva temple, the Shri Kartik Mahadev Temple (also called Bhasma Shankar temple), which had been hidden and locked since 1978. The temple, reopened on December 13, housed an idol of Lord Hanuman, a Shivling, and other ancient artifacts. Excavation around the temple revealed three damaged idols in a well near the mosque’s entrance.
The discovery of the temple and claims about its historical significance have added to the tensions. Authorities have sealed the well and deployed police forces around the mosque and temple sites to prevent further clashes.
Violence and Court Proceedings
The anti-encroachment drive follows violence on November 24, during a court-ordered Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) survey of the Jama Masjid. The incident left five people dead and over 20 police officers injured. The Supreme Court has since directed the Sambhal trial court to halt proceedings against the mosque until the Allahabad High Court hears the masjid committee’s objections to the survey.
Excavation and Historical Debate
The discovery of the temple and related artifacts has sparked debates over historical claims and communal tensions. Authorities are continuing excavation work and maintaining a strong police presence to ensure peace in the area.
The events in Sambhal underline the complex interplay of history, religion, and law, as authorities strive to balance heritage preservation with community peace.
