The controversy surrounding over disputed Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal has intensified after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) submitted a detailed report to the Allahabad High Court, claiming that significant modifications have been made to the mosque’s structure. The report, which highlights changes in tiles, stones, and the application of thick enamel paint in multiple colours, has prompted the High Court to order a fresh, comprehensive survey of the site.
The disputed mosque, already at the center of a long-standing legal battle over its origins, has now become the focal point of heightened religious and political tensions. While the mosque’s management had sought permission for whitewashing and repairs ahead of Ramzan, the High Court has denied their request, allowing only basic cleaning work to take place.
ASI report unveils alleged alterations: “Thick paint covering original structure”
The ASI’s latest findings, which were presented in court on February 28, raise critical questions about the preservation of the historical structure. According to the report, changes have been observed in the tiles and stones of the mosque’s floor, while various sections of the mosque have been coated with thick enamel paint in gold, red, green, and yellow.
“The application of thick paint appears to be an attempt to cover the original surface of the mosque,” the report states. The ASI further asserted that since the structure is already coated with enamel paint, there is no immediate need for any whitewashing or additional repairs.
This contradicts the claims made by the disputed Shahi Jama Masjid Management Committee, which had argued that whitewashing was necessary for maintenance purposes, particularly ahead of Ramzan, when the mosque sees a significant increase in footfall.
Taking the ASI’s report into consideration, the Allahabad High Court has refused to grant permission for any whitewashing or repair work at the mosque. The bench, led by Justice Rohit Ranjan Agarwal, ruled that while cleaning activities—including the removal of dust and vegetation—can proceed, no alterations or fresh painting will be allowed at this stage.
The controversy surrounding the disputed Shahi Jama Masjid dates back to a legal suit filed by advocate Hari Shankar Jain and seven others, who claim that the mosque was built over a demolished Hindu temple during the Mughal era. This led to a civil court order mandating a survey of the mosque, a move that sparked violent clashes in Sambhal in November 2023.
The Supreme Court had later issued a blanket stay on cases across India that challenge the religious character of existing structures, temporarily halting proceedings in many similar disputes.
Security has been tightened around the mosque as authorities brace for potential unrest in the lead-up to the next court hearing. The Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) North Sambhal had earlier raised concerns about proposed maintenance work at the mosque, stating that since it is a protected monument, permission from the ASI is required before any modifications can be made.
The High Court has scheduled the next hearing for after March 4, by which time all parties must submit their respective arguments.
