Clashes Erupt in Ujjain Over Proposed Shahi Masjid Demolition

Tensions escalated in Ujjain on Monday as police and protesters clashed over the proposed partial demolition of the historic Shahi Masjid. The confrontation, which involved the use of tear gas by security forces and stone-pelting by demonstrators, occurred as the Ujjain Municipal Corporation moved to clear structures falling within a road-widening project alignment ahead of the Simhastha 2028 religious gathering.

Legal and Procedural Context

The dispute centers on the Shahi Masjid, a Waqf property that community members claim dates back to 1390. The municipal corporation has marked 272 structures for removal to widen roads to 15 meters, citing the need to accommodate millions of pilgrims expected for the upcoming Simhastha Mela. On September 9, the Madhya Pradesh High Court dismissed two petitions challenging the demolition, with Justice Sandeep N. Bhatt ruling that the corporation had followed statutory procedures and that the project served a larger public interest. The court noted that action had already been taken against approximately 80 religious sites across the city, including portions of 10 temples and one mosque, rejecting claims of discriminatory treatment.

Ongoing Resistance and Protests

Despite the High Court order, the mosque committee has sought relief from a larger bench, with a hearing scheduled for Monday. Community members gathered at the site on Sunday night, refusing to vacate the premises and calling for the road-widening plan to be adjusted to avoid religious structures. Imam Mohammad Ibrahim stated that the community had already cooperated by surrendering other properties, including shops, but would not concede the mosque. AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi characterized the protest as a Gandhian movement and linked the situation to his parliamentary concerns regarding the Waqf Amendment law, alleging that the legislation facilitates the seizure of community properties.

Administration Stance and Next Steps

Ujjain Municipal Corporation Chairperson Kalawati Yadav emphasized that the infrastructure overhaul, which includes new ghats and diversion projects, is essential for the city's capacity to host the 2028 event. While police have deployed significant force, including the Rapid Action Force, to maintain order, officials have maintained that they are seeking a resolution through dialogue. The matter remains pending before the Madhya Pradesh High Court, with community members indicating they may approach the Supreme Court if the current legal challenge fails to provide the requested relief.