A court-ordered survey of the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, was conducted on Tuesday following a petition alleging that the mosque was originally a Hindu temple, known as the Hari Har Mandir. The claim, brought forward by Supreme Court lawyer Vishnu Shankar Jain, suggests that the temple was partially demolished by Mughal emperor Babar in 1529 and the mosque was constructed on its remnants.

The Court-Ordered Survey

The survey, mandated by the Civil Court of Sambhal, was carried out by an Advocate Commissioner in the presence of representatives from both sides. To ensure smooth proceedings, the district administration, led by District Magistrate Rajendra Pensia, provided tight security.
“The survey has been completed, and the report will be submitted to the court. Further action, if required, will be decided by the court,” said Pensia.

Claims of Historical Significance

Petitioner Vishnu Shankar Jain emphasized the site’s religious importance for Hindus, asserting that it is located in an Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-protected area. He cited alleged signs and symbols at the site that he believes point to its origins as a Hindu temple. Jain also linked the site to Hindu mythology, claiming that Sambhal holds significance as the prophesied birthplace of Kalki Avatar, a future incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

“Today, the Hon'ble Civil Court Sambhal has directed a survey at the alleged Jama Masjid in Sambhal, historically known as Hari Har Mandir,” Jain posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Opposition to the Claims

The survey has faced strong opposition from certain quarters. Samajwadi Party MP Zia Ur Rehman Barq objected to the claims, stressing that the Jama Masjid is a historical mosque and has always been recognized as such. Barq referenced the 1991 Places of Worship Act, which stipulates that the status of religious places should remain as they were in 1947.

“This mosque is an ancient structure and must be respected as such. Changing its designation undermines our shared history and harmony,” Barq stated.

Wider Implications

The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of disputes over places of worship in India. The Jain family, including Vishnu Shankar Jain and his father Hari Shankar Jain, has been involved in several similar legal battles, including the Gyanvapi-Kashi Vishwanath dispute.

“This is an ASI-protected area, and there should be no encroachment of any kind,” Jain told reporters. He further claimed, “There are visible signs and symbols indicative of a Hindu temple at the site.”

Historical Context

The dispute echoes larger tensions surrounding India’s historical and cultural heritage. Sambhal itself holds significance in Hindu mythology, and the claims about the Hari Har Mandir tie into long-standing narratives about temple destruction during the Mughal period.

This incident adds to ongoing legal and political debates over places of worship, rekindling discussions about historical justice and communal harmony.

As the survey report is awaited, the court’s decision on this sensitive matter will be closely watched. The case underscores the challenges of navigating India’s diverse cultural and historical legacy while maintaining communal peace.