Supreme Court Steps In Amid Row Over Well at Sambhal Mosque, Orders Status Quo

Supreme Court

The Supreme Court of India has taken cognizance of an escalating dispute concerning a well located at the entrance of the historic Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh.’

On January 10, 2025, the Court issued a directive to maintain the status quo at the site and instructed that no further action be taken without its express permission.

Mosque Committee

This development follows a local civil court’s order from November 19, 2024, which allowed a survey of the mosque premises. The mosque’s management committee has challenged the legality of that survey, citing a lack of proper notice and alleging that the move incited unrest and violence, resulting in fatalities.

During the Supreme Court hearing, Senior Advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, representing the mosque committee, highlighted the well’s historical and religious significance to the Muslim community.

He also raised objections to references labeling the site as “Hari Mandir” and voiced concern over intentions to initiate Hindu religious activities at the location.

Court observation

Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna, leading the bench, reassured that no religious activity would be permitted and emphasized the importance of preserving peace and communal harmony. The Court directed authorities to submit a detailed status report within two weeks and ordered that the survey findings be sealed and remain inactive until further notice.

This dispute is part of a broader pattern of legal conflicts over religious sites in India, which often become flashpoints for communal tensions. The Supreme Court’s intervention seeks to ensure due process while preventing any escalation on the ground.