Sambhal Survey: A four-member team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in Sambhal district of Uttar Pradesh on Friday conducted a thorough inspection of the ancient temple, five shrines, and 19 wells. After the violent clashes in November, the survey team once again reached the Shahi Jama Masjid of Sambhal amid tight security. District Magistrate Dr. Rajendra Pensia said that the survey lasted for 8-10 hours and about 24 areas were studied. During this survey, Shri Kartik Mahadev Temple (Bhasm Shankar Temple) was specially inspected, which was recently discovered.

The temple was closed after communal riots

The temple was discovered near Shahi Jama Masjid during an anti-encroachment drive on December 13. The temple was closed since the displacement of Hindu families due to communal riots in 1978. The temple has now been reopened for prayers. Also, the district administration has sent a proposal to the ASI for carbon dating of the temple and wells to determine their historical authenticity.

court order

The discovery of the temple comes amid clashes following a court order to survey the Shahi Jama Masjid. Security has been beefed up in the area since November, in which five people were killed and 20 policemen were injured during the clashes. The Supreme Court has barred civil courts from filing new cases on the ownership of religious places under the Places of Worship Act (1991), making the legal process even more important in resolving such disputes.

There was violence during the survey

It is worth noting that on 24 November 2024, violence broke out during the survey of Shahi Jama Masjid, in which four people died and many others were injured. The violence started when local residents pelted stones at the team that came to survey the mosque. To control the situation, the police fired tear gas shells and lathicharged. During this, many vehicles were also set on fire. After the incident, tension prevailed in the area, forcing the administration to suspend internet services and close schools.