NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday directed the management committee of Shahi Idgah Masjid in Sambhal to approach the high court, regarding the trial court’s survey order of the mosque, which Hindu parties claim was originally a temple.
The Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar, whilst hearing the matter, stated that the trial court’s order would remain suspended until the Shahi Idgah committee presents their case before the high court.
“We do not want anything to happen till they move HC. The trial court will not give effect to its order,” the top court said.
“Peace and harmony must be maintained at all costs,” it added.
The situation in Sambhal has been volatile since November 19, when authorities conducted a court-mandated survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, following assertions about the previous existence of a Harihar temple at the location.
On November 24, the situation worsened when demonstrators near the mosque engaged in confrontations with security forces, resulting in stone throwing and fire-setting incidents. The violence claimed four lives and left several injured.
A suit filed on November 19 by eight plaintiffs has claimed the mosque was originally a temple and sought rights of access and an injunction to prevent interference with the site. Acting on the suit, a civil judge issued an ex-parte order the same day, directing a survey of the mosque and appointing an advocate commissioner for the task.