Deadly Clashes Erupt in Sambhal Over Mosque Survey, Leaving Six Dead

Violence during a court-ordered survey of a historic mosque in Uttar Pradesh has escalated religious tensions, with police and protesters accusing each other of fatal gunfire.

Six people have died and over 20 police personnel were injured following violent clashes in Sambhal during a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, ordered by a local court over claims it was built on a Hindu temple site.
Authorities allege the deaths were caused by crossfire from homemade weapons used by protesters, while families of the deceased claim police gunfire was responsible.
The Uttar Pradesh government has imposed restrictions, including an internet shutdown and a ban on outsider entry to Sambhal until November 30, to prevent further unrest.
Police have arrested 25 individuals and named over 2,750 unidentified suspects in connection with the violence, with plans to recover damages for public property destruction from those involved.
Opposition parties accuse the ruling BJP of exacerbating religious divisions, while a magisterial probe is underway to investigate the causes and accountability for the violence.