The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is set to stir fresh controversy in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, with plans to replace the signboard outside the historic Shahi Jama Masjid with a new one labeling the site as “Juma Masjid.” The move comes just months after deadly unrest over claims that the Mughal-era mosque was built atop an ancient Hindu temple.
The blue ASI board, currently lying at the Satyavrat police outpost, is expected to be installed soon, replacing the older signage that referred to the monument by its popular name, “Shahi Jama Masjid.” According to ASI counsel Vishnu Sharma, the change is being made in accordance with official ASI documents, which list the structure as “Juma Masjid.”
Sharma added that another ASI board with the same name already exists within the mosque premises. He also revealed that a previously installed ASI board was allegedly removed by unidentified individuals who then placed one with the “Shahi” prefix — a move now being reversed.
The mosque has remained a flashpoint in the region following a petition alleging it was built over a Hindu temple, sparking tensions that boiled over on November 24 last year. During a survey of the site in Kot Garvi locality, violence erupted, leading to the deaths of four people and injuries to several others.
While the ASI has not confirmed the exact date for the installation of the new board, the decision is already drawing attention amid fears of renewed communal unrest.
