Protests erupt in Ujjain over Shahi Masjid demolition, stones pelted, tear gas fired
A large group of protesters clashed with police in Ujjain on Monday over the proposed demolition of a portion of the Shahi Masjid as part of a road-widening project ahead of the Simhastha 2028 fair.
Security remained tight around the Shahi Masjid Complex following protests and stone-pelting by people opposing the proposed removal of part of the mosque.
The dispute centres on the road-widening work being carried out in Ujjain ahead of the Simhastha 2028 fair. A portion of the mosque has already been demolished as part of the project, following which protests and opposition to the removal of the structure emerged. The Madhya Pradesh High Court is scheduled to hear the matter on Monday.
At the site, protesters were seen trying to move through the narrow lanes, with women being pushed forward as they attempted to proceed towards the protest site. Stones were also thrown at police personnel deployed in the area.
The situation remained tense, with police maintaining a heavy presence around the mosque complex.
Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi opposed the demolition of the Masjid Complex and urged the state government to take public sentiments into consideration.
