Sambhal Authorities Reopen Historic Temple Shut Down Since 1978 Riots
Sambhal authorities revealed that they had ‘discovered’ the temple during an anti-encroachment operation in the Khaggu Sarai area, close to the Shahi Jama Masjid.

Image Source: Hindustan Times
On Friday, Sambhal district officials reopened an ancient temple that had been locked since the communal riots of 1978. The discovery was made during an anti-encroachment drive near the Shahi Jama Masjid, where authorities uncovered the temple housing a Hanuman idol and a Shivling, according to PTI. Locals stated that the Bhasma Shankar temple had remained closed since the riots, which led to the displacement of the local Hindu community.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Misra, who was leading a campaign against electricity theft in the area, said the temple was found during an inspection. “Upon noticing it, I immediately informed the district authorities,” she explained. “We visited the site together and decided to reopen the temple,” Misra added, confirming it had been closed for decades. A nearby well was also found, and officials plan to reopen it.
The discovery follows weeks of unrest in the area, where violence during a court-ordered survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid claimed four lives. The Sambhal administration has intensified its efforts to address encroachments and electricity theft around the Mughal-era mosque.
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