The long-awaited survey report of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal has been submitted in the Chandausi court, intensifying the debate surrounding the contentious site. Advocate Commissioner Ramesh Singh Raghav handed over the 40-page document on Thursday to Civil Division Judge Aditya Singh in a sealed envelope.
The contents of the report, compiled during surveys conducted on November 19 and 24 last year, remain undisclosed pending further orders from the Supreme Court.
Raghav, explaining the delay in submission, said, "The survey was thorough and based on photos and videos collected over two days. Due to my health issues, there was some delay, but the report has now been filed and will remain sealed until directed otherwise by the Supreme Court."
The survey’s second day, November 24, coincided with violent clashes that left five people dead. Local residents recall the chaos vividly.
"The violence shook our entire community. People are still struggling to move past the events of that day," said Rajiv Kumar, a shopkeeper in the Kot Purvi area where the mosque is located.
The dispute revolves around claims by the Hindu petitioners that the Shahi Jama Masjid was originally a Shri Harihar temple, demolished by Mughal emperor Babur in 1529. Mahant Rishi Raj Giri of Kailadevi temple, one of the petitioners, said, "This place holds immense religious significance. It is believed to be the prophesied site for Lord Vishnu’s Dashavatar Kalki. There are several proofs within the structure that point to its origins as a temple."
The petitioners, led by Supreme Court lawyer Harishankar Jain and his son Vishnushankar Jain, have presented a 95-page document citing historical texts and archaeological findings to support their claim. Other petitioners include Mahant Dinanath and social workers Vedpal Singh, Madanpal, Rakesh Kumar, and Jeetpal Yadav.
The Advocate Commissioner confirmed that the next steps in the legal proceedings depend on potential appeals in the High Court. "For now, the court cannot open the report until a Supreme Court directive is issued. Even the judges have no access to the findings," Raghav added.
The submission of the report has heightened tensions in Sambhal. Many locals fear a resurgence of unrest. "We want peace and resolution, not more conflict," said Ayesha Begum, a resident living near the mosque. The case remains a sensitive issue, blending historical, legal, and communal aspects, as the nation awaits clarity on the court’s next move.
