How clashes erupted
Violence broke out near Sambhal's Jama Masjid on November 24, 2024 during a court-ordered survey prompted by a petition claiming the mosque was once a temple.
Survey enraged mob
The ASI survey of Jama Masjid began peacefully at 7am but turned violent by 9am as a mob allegedly hurled stones at police.
Rage spreads on streets
Despite tear gas shelling and lathi charge, violence worsened as vehicles were torched, and chaos spread to Deep Sarai amid stone-pelting.
Survey team evacuated
To safeguard the survey team, authorities evacuated them from the conflict zone. By evening, internet services were suspended across the district.
Prohibitory orders
District authorities enforced restrictions on outsiders' entry until November 30.
FIRs filed
Seven FIRs were lodged against 2,500 people, including SP's MP Zia-ur-Rahman Barq and MLA Iqbal Mahmood’s son Sohail. Police detained 25 suspects.
Security upped
Following the violence authorities have increased security around the Shahi Jama Masjid.
MP denies charges
Samajwadi Party MP Ziaur Rehman Barq has denied inciting violence calling the allegations a "conspiracy."