India: Three Muslims killed in clashes with police around Mughal-era mosque

The town of Sambhal, located in Uttar Pradesh, was recently rocked by violent clashes around the Jama Masjid, a historic mosque built during the reign of Emperor Babur between 1526 and 1530. At the origin of the tensions, a legal controversy fueled by claims the mosque was built on the remains of an ancient Hindu temple.

The case was brought to court by lawyer Vishnu Shanker Jain, known for his interventions in other similar conflicts. He claims that the mosque was erected after the destruction of a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Kalki, supposedly built by the mythical architect Vishwakarma. In response, a court ordered an inspection of the site on November 19, 2024, triggering strong opposition from the Muslim community, which relies on the 1991 law banning any changes to places of worship since India’s independence.

Fearing a repeat of the 1992 Babri mosque incidents, residents staged protests that quickly escalated into riots. The police used tear gas to disperse the crowd, leading to a tragic toll of four deaths and more than thirty police officers injured. Faced with escalating violence, authorities decided to suspend public gatherings, cut internet services and temporarily close schools. Investigations continue to bring the instigators of the unrest to justice, while calls for calm and peaceful negotiation are increasing.

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