Violent Clashes in India’ Sambhal Over Mosque Survey Leave Three Dead

Violent protests have erupted in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, India, resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to over 20 police officers during a court-ordered survey of the Jama Masjid, The Tribune, reported yesterday.

Protesters opposed to the survey clashed with police, leading to stone-pelting and vehicle arson.

In response to the unrest, internet services were suspended for 24 hours, and a holiday was declared for students up to Class 12. Authorities detained 15 individuals, with further investigations initiated under the National Security Act.

Tensions have been escalating since the survey was ordered due to claims that a temple once stood at the mosque’s site, prompting fears of communal unrest. Such claims have been on the rise under the nationalist Government of Modi, driven by a suspected Hindutva agenda to marginalize Islam and Muslims in the country.