Tensions flared once again in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal district after three men from Delhi were detained on Friday for allegedly attempting to perform a havan and puja near the Shahi Jama Masjid — a site already under heavy security due to Friday prayers.
The three individuals — identified as Sanatan Singh, Veer Singh Yadav, and Anil Singh — were taken into custody near the disputed area in Mohalla Kot Garvi, a location that has been at the center of religious controversy and communal tension since last year.
Confirming the detentions, Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Bishnoi stated: "The individuals arrived in a car and were apprehended near the disputed site. They’ve been taken to the police station and will face action for disturbing public order. They will also be warned not to enter Sambhal in the future."
According to their own statements, the men claimed their intentions were spiritual.
Sanatan Singh said, “We came to perform a havan and yagna at the Vishnu Harihar temple. If namaz can be offered there, why can’t we do puja?” Veer Singh Yadav added, “We came to conduct rituals at the Sambhal mosque but were stopped by police.” Anil Singh reiterated their claim, saying, “We were there for a havan at the Harihar temple when we were detained.”
The incident comes at a time of ongoing sensitivity surrounding the site.
On November 24 last year, four people died in violent clashes during protests against a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid. The petition prompting the survey alleged that the mosque was built on the remains of a demolished Hindu temple.
Authorities have reiterated that any actions threatening communal peace will be dealt with firmly, especially in a region still grappling with the aftermath of previous unrest, which also left several people, including security personnel, injured.