Archaeological Survey of India’s team refused entry into the Sambhal Masjid

Case registered against the Administration committee of the Masjid

Sambhal (Uttar Pradesh) – Recently a case of misbehaviour with the team of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) by the Administration Committee of the Jama Masjid in Sambhal has been reported. They tried to stop the ASI team from inspecting  the Central Dome and the Police said that it is reported that an unidentified person attempted to provoke a confrontation. During the inspection, committee member Hafiz called Mohammad Kashif Khan to the site, and both allegedly stopped the ASI officers from entering the main dome area.

The ASI team returned to Meerut and submitted a report. After reviewing the report, the ASI’s Meerut division Junior Engineer has filed a formal complaint to the Sambhal police. They have also given a detailed report of the incident to the District officer. On the basis of these complaints the Police have registered a case against the Masjid’s Administration Committee. The Police are investigating into the matter.

Editorial Perspective

If the archaeological team is obstructed from entering a mosque, what is wrong if people suspect that unlawful activities are taking place inside ?