Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh), March 1, 2025: A three-member judicial inquiry committee investigating the violence that erupted in Sambhal in November 2024 continued its probe on Saturday, recording additional statements related to the clashes triggered by a court-ordered survey of the Mughal-era Shahi Jama Masjid.
The panel, comprising former high court judge Devendra Arora, ex-police chief Arvind Kumar Jain, and former Uttar Pradesh additional chief secretary Amit Mohan Prasad, recorded the statement of advocate Gopal Sharma, representing the Hindu side. Sharma appeared before the committee at the PWD Guest House in Sambhal.
Addressing media personnel after giving his testimony, Sharma said the commission had asked him to submit a written affidavit detailing his eyewitness account of the incident.
"I have submitted my affidavit to the Commission. They cross-questioned me thoroughly, asking about those who were present during the incident, whether the riot appeared to be pre-planned, why people forcefully entered the mosque premises, and how the photography during the survey was conducted. I have answered all their queries clearly," Sharma said.
Background of the Sambhal Violence Incident
Tension escalated in Sambhal starting November 19, 2024, following a court directive to conduct a survey of the historic Shahi Jama Masjid. The survey was ordered after petitions claimed that the mosque stood atop the site of a previously existing Harihar temple.The violence reached a peak on November 24, during the second round of the survey, when local protesters clashed with security forces. The confrontation led to the tragic loss of four lives, with dozens more injured in the chaos.
Previous Visits by the Investigation Committee
The judicial probe committee previously visited Sambhal on three occasions—December 1, 2024, and subsequently on January 21 and January 30, 2025—to gather evidence and statements from involved parties.In its fourth visit on Friday, the panel also recorded statements from advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain, who reiterated his claims that the Shahi Jama Masjid was originally a Hindu temple.
The investigation continues as authorities seek clarity on the circumstances leading to the violent clashes, aiming to ensure accountability and prevent future unrest.
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