Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday intervened in the ongoing Sambhal mosque dispute, directing the management committee of Shahi Idgah Masjid to move the Allahabad High Court to challenge the trial court’s survey order. The Chief Justice of India, Sanjiv Khanna, along with Justice Sanjay Kumar, emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and harmony during the proceedings.
Key Directives by the Supreme Court
•The trial court’s survey order remains suspended until the Shahi Idgah committee approaches the Allahabad High Court.
•The Allahabad High Court has been instructed to hear the plea within three working days of its filing.
•The trial court has been barred from enforcing its order until the matter is resolved in the High Court.
Background of the Dispute
•Survey Controversy: The dispute stems from a November 19 court-mandated survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid, with Hindu groups claiming the mosque was originally a Harihar temple.
•Escalation of Violence: Clashes erupted near the mosque on November 24, involving demonstrators and security forces. The unrest included stone-pelting and arson, resulting in four fatalities and multiple injuries.
Legal Developments
A suit filed on November 19 by eight plaintiffs alleged that the mosque stood on a temple site and sought unrestricted access and protection of the location. Acting swiftly, the trial court issued an ex-parte order the same day, appointing an advocate commissioner to survey the site.
Supreme Court’s Emphasis
The Supreme Court underscored the need for peaceful proceedings, stating, “Peace and harmony must be maintained at all costs.” The apex court’s intervention aims to ensure a balanced legal approach while addressing communal sensitivities.
