The Supreme Court stepped in on Friday to address the simmering tensions surrounding the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. This mosque has recently become the focal point of a contentious dispute, with claims that it was built over a demolished temple during the Mughal era. Amid rising protests and tragic incidents of violence, the apex court directed the local court to pause its controversial survey order, emphasizing the need for peace and sensitivity.
The bench, led by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Justice PV Sanjay Kumar, expressed deep concerns about the fragile situation on the ground. "We cannot allow such disputes to disrupt communal harmony," they noted, urging all parties to approach the matter with caution and rely on the established legal framework under the Code of Civil Procedure.
This directive comes in response to an appeal challenging the Sambhal civil court's November 19 decision. That decision had appointed an advocate commissioner to survey the mosque, with a report deadline by the month's end. The survey order triggered widespread unrest, resulting in violent clashes that claimed the lives of four individuals. The Court’s intervention aims to prevent further bloodshed.
Advocate Hari Shankar Jain, representing petitioners seeking the survey, cited historical claims about the mosque's origins. However, Senior Advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, appearing for the mosque committee, passionately argued that such orders risk igniting further turmoil. "We must not act rashly in matters that touch the core of faith and identity," he urged the bench.
Acknowledging the gravity of the issue, the Supreme Court suggested exploring mediation and neutral arbitration to ease tensions. "Dialogue and understanding must take precedence over conflict," the justices remarked. They proposed the involvement of local mediation committees to foster a constructive approach to the dispute.
As the nation watches closely, the Court has scheduled the next hearing for early January. Meanwhile, it has urged the High Court to address related appeals promptly to prevent the situation from spiraling further.
In these charged times, the Supreme Court’s call for calm and careful deliberation serves as a timely reminder of the power of dialogue over discord, urging communities to seek unity in diversity and justice with compassion.
