Sambhal Violence: A Comprehensive Look Into the Judicial Probe and ASI’s Claims

The Sambhal violence of November 2024 has brought to light the deep complexities of historical disputes in India. Triggered by a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, the incident saw violent clashes, leading to loss of lives, injuries, and renewed calls for maintaining communal harmony. This article delves into the root causes, the judicial inquiry, the role of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and the broader socio-political implications.

Backdrop of the Violence

On November 24, 2024, the city of Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, became a flashpoint of unrest during a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. Petitioners allege that the mosque was constructed over a pre-existing Harihar temple, sparking debates on its origins. The survey, mandated by the court, witnessed strong resistance from local groups.

Key outcomes of the incident:

• 4 deaths reported during the violence.
• Several individuals injured, including members of the police force.
• Public property damaged due to arson and stone-pelting.

Tensions had been simmering since November 19, when survey proceedings began amidst heavy security. The violence has reignited long-standing debates about historical structures and their cultural identities.

Formation of the Judicial Inquiry Panel

To address the unrest, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel announced the establishment of a three-member judicial inquiry commission on November 28, 2024. The commission, led by Justice Devendra Kumar Arora, retired judge of the Allahabad High Court, has a mandate to investigate the events comprehensively.

The inquiry’s focus areas include:

1. Analyzing the cause of the violence—whether it was a spontaneous reaction or a planned conspiracy.
2. Evaluating law enforcement preparedness and response during the survey.
3. Identifying triggers that escalated tensions.
4. Recommending preventive measures to avoid similar incidents.

The panel includes experts from diverse fields:

• Justice Devendra Kumar Arora, Chairperson.
• Amit Mohan Prasad, retired IAS officer.
• Arvind Kumar Jain, retired IPS officer.

The commission has been given two months to submit its findings, with provisions for extension if necessary.

Role of the ASI in the Dispute

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has also become a key player in this conflict. It has formally requested control over the Shahi Jama Masjid to investigate the historical claims surrounding the structure. The ASI’s primary goals include:

1. Archaeological surveys to determine the mosque’s historical origins.
2. Verification of claims about its construction on a pre-existing temple.
3. Preservation of any artifacts or evidence found during the process.

While the court is yet to rule on the ASI’s plea, the request has added another layer of sensitivity to an already volatile issue. The case is being closely watched as it could set a precedent for similar disputes.

Law and Order: The Government’s Role

The district administration and law enforcement agencies have come under scrutiny for their handling of the situation. Critics argue that inadequate planning and intelligence gathering allowed the violence to escalate. In response, the government has taken several measures:

• Enforcing Section 144 in Sambhal to prohibit public gatherings.
• Deploying additional police forces to maintain order.
• Arresting individuals suspected of inciting violence.

Despite these actions, the public is demanding greater accountability from authorities to ensure such incidents do not recur.

The Larger Debate: Historical Structures and Religious Identity

The dispute over the Shahi Jama Masjid is not an isolated case. India has witnessed similar controversies in the past, including:

1. Ayodhya’s Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute, resolved after decades of legal battles.
2. The ongoing Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi Mosque case in Varanasi.
3. The Mathura Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute, which remains under litigation.

These cases often involve deeply entrenched religious beliefs and historical narratives. The resolution of such disputes requires a delicate balance between legal processes, community sentiment, and the preservation of India’s pluralistic identity.

Socio-Political Implications

The Sambhal violence highlights several pressing issues:

1. Polarization: The incident underscores the growing communal divide in certain regions of India. Political and social leaders must step in to promote dialogue and reconciliation.
2. Judicial responsibility: Courts play a crucial role in adjudicating such sensitive matters. Swift and transparent rulings can help reduce tensions.
3. Preservation of heritage: The ASI’s involvement brings attention to the need for protecting India’s historical sites, irrespective of their religious affiliations.

Key Steps Moving Forward

To prevent similar incidents, the following measures are essential:

1. Community outreach: Building trust among diverse groups through dialogue and cultural programs.
2. Improved intelligence gathering: Ensuring law enforcement is better prepared to handle sensitive situations.
3. Judicial clarity: Establishing clear legal frameworks for resolving disputes involving historical and religious landmarks.

Public Reaction and Media Coverage

The Sambhal violence has drawn widespread media attention, with experts and public figures weighing in on the need for restraint and resolution. Many have urged both the government and the judiciary to expedite their actions to restore public confidence.

Conclusion

The judicial probe into the Sambhal violence and the ASI’s petition for control of the Shahi Jama Masjid mark significant developments in India’s ongoing discourse on historical and religious identity. While the outcomes of these investigations are awaited, the incident serves as a reminder of the need for careful handling of such disputes to ensure peace and unity.

With proper legal and administrative steps, it is possible to achieve resolutions that honor history while fostering communal harmony.