By Ishfaq Gowher
Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh | April 2025 : A new controversy has emerged in Sambhal district, Uttar Pradesh, after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) chose to change the nameplate of the historic Shahi Jama Masjid to “Juma Masjid. ” The ASI claims that the mosque is officially registered under the name “Juma Masjid. ” The mosque has been a topic of conflict since November 2024, when a court ordered an ASI survey following allegations that it was built over a Hindu temple, leading to violent clashes resulting in deaths and injuries.
In March 2025, the Allahabad High Court directed the ASI to whitewash the mosque exterior, a task completed with police protection. The ASI asserts that the mosque has been protected under the Ancient Monuments Act since 1920 and was officially documented as “Juma Masjid. ” They also alleged unauthorized alterations made by the mosque management, including steel railings installed in 2018. The new signboard with “Juma Masjid” is currently under police custody and will be installed soon.
The Muslim community has reacted strongly, accusing the government of trying to erase their cultural identity. Local leaders stated that changing the name without community consultation is unfair. Protests have been announced, and there are plans to challenge the name change legally. While Hindu groups support the ASI’s decision, opposition leaders criticize it as divisive. The UP government has set up a commission to investigate the November violence, and no official notification has been issued to change the mosque’s name in records yet.
