A protest over the proposed removal of a portion of Ujjain’s Shahi Masjid intensified on Monday, leading to a confrontation between protesters and police and the deployment of tear gas.
The dispute is connected with road-widening work being undertaken in the city ahead of Simhastha 2028. Authorities say the project is necessary to improve infrastructure and facilitate the movement of large crowds expected during the religious gathering. The Shahi Masjid is among the structures affected by the proposed road alignment.
The situation became tense when a large crowd gathered near the mosque. Police were present at the site as officials prepared to carry out the proposed action. During the confrontation, reports said stones were thrown at security personnel. Police responded with tear-gas shells.
Rapid Action Force personnel were also deployed in the area. Their presence was intended to reinforce the local police and prevent the situation from escalating further.
The latest incident followed a weekend of protests. Members of the Muslim community had gathered at the mosque to oppose the proposed demolition of part of the structure. Some people reportedly planned to remain there overnight rather than allow the authorities to proceed.
The administration’s position has been strengthened by a recent High Court ruling. The Madhya Pradesh High Court dismissed petitions challenging the proposed partial demolition, allowing authorities to proceed with the road-widening work. The court considered the expected requirements associated with Simhastha 2028.
However, the legal ruling has not ended opposition at the local level. Community members continue to object to the removal of portions of the mosque and have used protests to make their concerns known.
The court proceedings also reveal that the dispute has involved a series of municipal notices. Representatives of the Shahi Masjid challenged the notices and asked the court to prevent authorities from taking coercive action.
Officials have described the road project as part of broader preparations for Simhastha. The city is expected to experience substantial pressure on its roads and public infrastructure during the event.
Reports from the court proceedings have also indicated that the wider road-widening exercise has affected several religious structures. This is part of the administration’s argument that the project is not directed at one particular community or place of worship.
Monday’s clash has nevertheless raised concerns about the possibility of further tension. Police have maintained a strong presence around the mosque and surrounding area.
The immediate focus is on restoring calm and preventing additional confrontations. Authorities will also have to determine how and when the road-widening work can continue.
The incident highlights the difficult balance between infrastructure development and religious sensitivities. Ujjain’s preparations for Simhastha 2028 are likely to involve extensive changes across the city, but projects involving religious structures can generate strong opposition.
As the situation remains closely monitored, further developments could involve additional administrative decisions, community discussions or legal proceedings.
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