Muslim residents begin demolishing own homes near Sambhal's rediscovered 'ancient' temple

Following the discovery of a purported ancient temple near Sambhal’s Jama Masjid, several Muslim residents have voluntarily started demolishing their homes, acknowledging they were built on disputed temple land.

Local authorities have intensified anti-encroachment efforts, installing CCTV cameras and deploying police forces to maintain order.

One resident, speaking anonymously, explained, “At least we can salvage some of our belongings this way. If we leave the demolition to the administration, we might lose everything.”

The Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation has simultaneously launched power theft raids in minority-concentrated areas, including Sambhal’s old city. On Dec 17, a smart meter was installed at the residence of Samajwadi Party MP Zia-Ur Rahman, who recently received a notice over alleged illegal construction. Officials revealed that dozens of houses were found stealing electricity, resulting in fines totaling ₹1.3 crore.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Shrish Chandra confirmed the crackdown, stating, “The power department sought police protection to conduct raids in certain areas near the Jama Masjid. Several cases of electricity theft were discovered.”

The administration’s intensified action follows the violent clashes that erupted on Nov 24 during an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-led survey of the mosque.

The court-ordered inspection, meant to investigate claims that the mosque was built on a demolished Hindu temple from the Mughal era, resulted in five deaths and over 20 police officers being injured.

On Nov 29, the Supreme Court intervened, directing the trial court in Sambhal to halt proceedings against the mosque until the Allahabad High Court hears the masjid committee’s challenge to the survey order.

Meanwhile, authorities have sealed an ancient well discovered near the mosque's entrance, with excavation efforts underway. “The well was hidden beneath a marble slab at the mosque’s edge. Police remain stationed at the site,” said ASP Chandra.

The saga began when an anti-encroachment drive uncovered an abandoned house near the Shahi Jama Masjid, revealing a centuries-old Shiva temple with a Shivling and a Hanuman idol inside. The house had reportedly been deserted by its Hindu occupants after the 1978 riots and was encroached upon in the following decades.

Further investigations revealed the ancient well, concealed beneath a ramp near the mosque. The ASI has been tasked with conducting carbon dating to determine the temple's historical significance.

Authorities are also tracing the original ownership records and exploring ways to restore the temple while pursuing legal action against those involved in the encroachment.

The situation in Sambhal remains tense, with police presence reinforced to prevent further unrest as investigations continue.