Mosque demolition protests turn violent in Ujjain

Protests over the planned removal of part of a mosque in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, turned violent on Monday after demonstrators clashed with police during a road-widening project.

Police used tear gas and baton charges to disperse protesters after stones were thrown at security personnel. At least seven people were detained, while five content creators were booked over allegations of spreading misinformation. Several police officers reportedly suffered minor injuries.

Tensions had started on Sunday night when a large crowd gathered near the Shahi Masjid and remained at the site overnight. Talks were held with community representatives, and officials said an understanding was reached in the early hours of Monday. However, another gathering formed later in the morning, leading to stone-pelting and a police response.

The dispute is linked to a road-widening project covering a stretch of around 900 metres between Kanthal Chauraha and Gopal Mandir. The road is planned to be expanded to 15 metres ahead of the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh festival.

Officials said approximately 11 feet of the mosque near Chhatri Chowk falls within the proposed road alignment. According to authorities, the mosque committee had agreed to remove the affected section following overnight discussions.

Ujjain Collector Roshan Kumar Singh said rumours claiming that the mosque was being forcibly demolished contributed to the unrest. Police subsequently sealed off the area and restricted movement around the site.

Members of the Muslim community and mosque representatives had expressed opposition to the proposed removal. Imam Mohammad Ibrahim said there were concerns that altering part of the structure could affect the remaining building.

Women also staged a protest and blocked a road at Naka No 5. Crime Branch inspector Pushpa Panchal sustained a cut to her hand while police were attempting to move the protesters away and was provided first aid.

Ujjain Qazi Khali Kurre Rehman urged residents to disregard rumours and avoid the area. He said the mosque-related issue had been settled during the overnight discussions and the agreed work was proceeding.

The road expansion has also affected part of the Khade Hanuman temple and a section of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav’s ancestral property, according to local reports.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court’s Indore Bench rejected two petitions challenging the proposed mosque removal on September 9. The court cited preparations for the Simhastha festival, public safety, traffic management and the need for improved public facilities. Another petition concerning the matter was listed for hearing on Monday.

Police said CCTV cameras and drones were being used to identify people allegedly involved in the violence. Authorities said cases would be registered against those found responsible.