Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal is once again making headlines for communal tensions. This time, the controversy is over the decision to cover 10 mosques, including the historic Jama Masjid, with plastic sheets and tarpaulins as a Holi procession passes through on March 14, 2025.
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What led to this decision?
Sambhal has been a hotbed of controversy since November 2024, when a court-ordered survey was conducted at the Jama Masjid. The petition alleged that the mosque was built over the ruins of a Hindu temple, triggering mass protests. What followed was a violent clash that left five people dead and more than 20 police officers injured.
With the wounds of that unrest still fresh, the authorities are taking no chances this time around. The town has been divided into different security zones, and over 1,000 people have already been detained as a precaution. But will these measures be enough?
Has there been tension in Sambhal before?
Yes. Last year, violence erupted in Sambhal after a court-ordered survey of the Jama Masjid was conducted based on claims that the mosque was built on the ruins of a Hindu temple. The situation quickly escalated into massive protests, leading to violent clashes that resulted in:
- Five people dead
- Over 20 police personnel injured
- More than 1,000 people detained
With memories of that violence still fresh, authorities are doing everything possible to prevent another communal flashpoint during Holi.
What’s the controversy about?
Earlier this week, senior police officer Anuj Kumar Chaudhary stirred controversy when he suggested that Muslims should stay at home during Holi to avoid getting colour on themselves. His justification?
“The festival of colours comes only once a year, while Friday namaz happens 52 times a year.”
This statement was met with mixed reactions—while some supported his view, others saw it as an attempt to restrict religious freedoms. To make matters worse, BJP leader Raghuraj Singh added fuel to the fire by sarcastically suggesting that Muslim men should wear “tarpaulin hijabs” to protect themselves from Holi colours.
Adding to the controversy, BJP leader Raghuraj Singh suggested that Muslim men should wear hijabs made of tarpaulin to avoid being inconvenienced by Holi colours.
While his comment was made sarcastically, it was seen as mocking religious sensitivities, sparking further outrage.
What Did Officials Say About These Measures?
Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shrishchandra explained:
“All religious sites along the Holi procession route will be covered to prevent any accidental damage or provocation.”
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandna Mishra added:
“Lekhpals have been put on duty at different masjids in Sambhal. The district has been divided into sectors. We are fully prepared for Holi and will ensure peace.”
But despite these precautions, some remarks from officials and politicians have added fuel to the fire.
Is This Just About Holi, or Is There a Bigger Political Game?
Many believe this isn’t just about covering mosques—it’s about a larger political and religious battle.
This pattern of historical disputes over mosques and temples is not new:
- The Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi dispute in Ayodhya
- The Gyanvapi Mosque case in Varanasi
- The Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute in Mathura
Now, Sambhal’s Jama Masjid is being dragged into a similar controversy, with religious narratives being used as political tools.
Will Holi in Sambhal Be Peaceful or Another Flashpoint?
With authorities on high alert, the administration is doing everything possible to prevent violence. But the question remains:
Will this be a peaceful Holi, or will it ignite new tensions between communities?
Only time will tell. But for now, Sambhal remains on edge, balancing between celebration and conflict.
