Protests Erupt Over Proposed Demolition of Historic Shahi Masjid in Ujjain
Tensions Rise in Ujjain Amid Protests
Screengrab shows massive crowd gathered outside Shahi Masjid protesting over the proposed demolition of the structure for a road-widening project in Ujjain, MP
(Photo: @Vishii14/X)
Ujjain, Sep 28: On Monday morning, parts of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh experienced heightened tensions as protests erupted against the planned partial demolition of the historic Shahi Masjid. The situation escalated with reports of stone-pelting, prompting police to deploy tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.
A significant police presence has been established around the mosque complex as preparations continue for the upcoming Simhastha 2028 event.
The unrest is primarily linked to road-widening efforts along a 900-metre stretch from Kanthal Square to Gopal Mandir. Authorities aim to expand the road to 15 metres to accommodate the anticipated influx of pilgrims during this major Hindu religious event.
Several religious structures are situated within the project area. Officials have indicated that most of the approximately 60 structures along the route have already been cleared. However, the Shahi Masjid and a nearby mazar adjacent to the “Khade Hanuman Mandir” have become focal points of resistance in recent days.
Community members describe the Shahi Masjid as a centuries-old Waqf property, with some accounts tracing its origins back to around 1390. The proposed demolition would impact parts of the prayer hall, a minaret, and associated structures.
Previously, the Madhya Pradesh High Court in Indore dismissed petitions contesting the Ujjain Municipal Corporation’s notices, citing public interest and traffic requirements for the upcoming Simhastha. A further hearing on the matter was scheduled for Monday at the Indore High Court.
In anticipation of potential enforcement actions, authorities deployed nearly 2,000 police personnel along with heavy machinery, including earthmoving equipment.
Members of the Muslim community began gathering at the Shahi Masjid complex and surrounding roads from Saturday night, chanting slogans. Protests persisted through Sunday night, leading to barricades being erected along the “Kanthal-Gopal Mandir” route to limit movement, with drone surveillance in place.
Police and Rapid Action Force units maintained a strong presence throughout the area.
On Monday, as tensions remained high, some youths continued to throw stones at police personnel, even as tear gas was deployed multiple times. Reports indicate that over a dozen tear gas shells were used in attempts to disperse the crowd.
While efforts to restore order continued, tensions at the site remained palpable.
In a related incident, Crime Branch TI Pushpa Panchal sustained an injury to her hand during law enforcement duties. According to police, a group of women was advancing during the protest. As the female police contingent attempted to safely guide them away, officers approached the group, which was using a sheet for cover. The corner of the sheet inadvertently cut TI Panchal’s hand, requiring first aid and bandaging.
Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported among the protesting women, and all remained unharmed.
The administration has reiterated that the road-widening initiative is part of broader infrastructure improvements for Simhastha 2028, which is expected to attract millions of devotees. Similar measures have been implemented against various religious and non-religious structures throughout the city to alleviate congestion near key sites, including the Mahakaleshwar Temple area.
Community representatives have urged that the mosque be preserved, while officials assert that the work is proceeding in accordance with legal protocols and development plans.
As of the latest updates, a large police contingent continues to ensure security around the mosque, focusing on preventing further escalation while the High Court hearing is underway.