Four Muslims who defended a mosque built during the Babur period in India were killed

At least four Muslims were killed and dozens injured in a clash between police and local Muslims who came to demolish the Shahi Jama Masjid, built during the Babur dynasty, in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, India. The government claims that the mosque was built in place of a supposed Hindu temple.

NDTV reported that the internet was down in the city, authorities decided to close all schools, and entry into the city was prohibited without a special permit.

The riots began after authorities arrived under police protection to demolish the ancient Shahi Jama Masjid, built during the Baburi period. A court order has already been passed to demolish this mosque. The government mosque was allegedly built in place of a destroyed Hindu temple. This decision caused protests by the majority Muslim community in Sambhal.

According to NDTV, protesters set fire to several cars, threw stones and sticks at police, who used tear gas and batons to disperse the crowd. About 20 policemen are among the wounded, one of them is in serious condition. More than 20 protesters were arrested by the police.

It should be noted that the Indian government demolished the centuries-old Babur mosque and built a Hindu temple in its place.