Controversy Erupts Over Proposed Demolition of Part of Royal Mosque in Ujjain

Tensions are escalating in Ujjain as a proposal to demolish part of the Royal Mosque for road widening has sparked significant protests from local residents and the Muslim community. The Ujjain Municipal Corporation plans to widen the road by 15 meters in preparation for the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh, citing traffic management and public safety. However, community members argue for alternative solutions that would preserve the mosque. With a court hearing scheduled for September 28, the situation remains tense as both sides await a resolution.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 28, 2026, 10:57 IST

Rising Tensions Over Mosque Demolition Proposal

A significant dispute has emerged regarding the proposal to remove a section of the Royal Mosque in Ujjain. This action is part of a road widening initiative ahead of the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh. In response, a large gathering of local residents and members of the Muslim community assembled around the mosque on Sunday. Many expressed their intention to stay overnight at the site, while the administration deployed police forces in an attempt to resolve the situation through dialogue. The Madhya Pradesh High Court is scheduled to hear the case on Monday, September 28.

Dispute Arises from Road Widening Plans

The controversy is linked to the Ujjain Municipal Corporation's plan to widen the road by approximately 15 meters. According to officials, this project is part of the Ujjain Development Plan 2035, aimed at managing traffic and ensuring public safety during the Simhastha Kumbh in 2028.

Community Members Gather Around the Mosque

On Sunday, a crowd gathered near the Royal Mosque, with reports indicating that some individuals were preparing to stay overnight in protest against the proposed actions. In light of the situation, police, Rapid Action Force (RAF), and Special Task Force (STF) personnel were deployed, and security forces conducted a flag march in the area.

Local Administration Engages with Mosque Committee

The local administration has been in discussions with mosque committee members and community members. According to Ujjain's Superintendent of Police, Pradeep Sharma, the administration is currently not proceeding with any demolition actions and is seeking a resolution through dialogue.

Court's Previous Ruling

The Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court had previously dismissed two petitions on September 9, 2026, challenging the municipal corporation's proposal to remove parts of the mosque for road widening. The court concluded that the municipal corporation had followed the necessary legal procedures and had provided affected parties the opportunity to file objections.

Upcoming Hearing in Double Bench

Following the single judge's order, the parties associated with the mosque have filed an appeal before the double bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court. The hearing, which was initially scheduled for Friday, is now expected to take place on Monday, September 28.

Arguments from Mosque Management

The mosque management has argued that the proposed actions could impact the prayer hall, the approximately 120-foot tall minaret, and parts associated with the Mazhar Chowk. The petitioners have also cited constitutional provisions related to religious freedom, equality, and property rights.

Municipal Corporation's Justification for Widening

The Ujjain Municipal Corporation asserts that the road widening is essential due to the anticipated influx of pilgrims during the Simhastha Kumbh in 2028. They emphasize the need for adequate space to manage traffic and crowd control, given the mosque's proximity to the Mahakaleshwar Temple and the Kshipra River.

Future Developments

Currently, security measures around the Royal Mosque have been heightened, and the administration is working to manage the situation through dialogue. The next steps will depend on the High Court's hearing and subsequent orders, where both parties' arguments will be presented, potentially clarifying the legal actions regarding the proposed demolition.

Overview of the Situation

Location: Royal Mosque, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh

Dispute: Proposal to remove part of the mosque for road widening

Plan: Widening the road by approximately 15 meters

Reason: Traffic and public safety during Simhastha Kumbh 2028

Protests: Local residents and members of the Muslim community gathered around the mosque

Security: Deployment of police, RAF, and STF

Initial Ruling: High Court's single bench dismissed petitions on September 9

Next Hearing: Scheduled for September 28 in double bench

Conclusion: The case surrounding the Royal Mosque in Ujjain has evolved into a legal dispute involving road widening, religious structures, and public safety. The administration claims the action is part of a development plan, while mosque management and local residents oppose the proposed removal. The final outcome will depend on the court's hearing and subsequent orders.