On November 29, 2024, the Supreme Court directed the management committee of the Shahi Idgah Masjid in Sambhal to approach the high court regarding the trial court's order for a survey of the mosque. The Hindu parties involved in the case claim that the site was originally a temple.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna and Justice Sanjay Kumar clarified that the trial court’s directive would remain suspended until the Shahi Idgah committee presents its case before the high court. “We do not want anything to happen until they move the high court. The trial court will not enforce its order,” the bench stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and harmony at all costs.

The controversy intensified after a court-mandated survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid was conducted on November 19, 2024 following claims that a Harihar temple previously existed at the site. The situation escalated on November 24, 2024 when clashes broke out near the mosque, leading to incidents of stone-pelting and arson. These confrontations resulted in four deaths and multiple injuries.

The conflict traces back to a suit filed by eight plaintiffs on November 19, 2024 alleging that the mosque was originally a temple. They sought access rights and an injunction to prevent interference at the site. Acting on the suit, a civil judge issued an ex-parte order on the same day, directing the survey and appointing an advocate commissioner to oversee the process.

Source- TOI