Uttar Pradesh: Locks of second temple opened in Sambhal near violence-hit mosque

Authorities in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal on Tuesday opened the locks of a second temple in Sarai Tarin, located around two kilometres from the Shahi Jama Masjid where violence erupted after a court-ordered survey a month ago, The Indian Express reported.

This came after another temple in Khaggu Sarai was unlocked by the authorities in the district on Saturday. Both temples are located in predominantly Muslim localities.

The temple in Sarai Tarin, which is around 32 years old, was opened after the police and the district administration allegedly received details about the structure dedicated to the Hindu deity Balaji from residents.

Statues of the deities Krishna, Radha and Hanuman were found inside, unidentified police officers told The Indian Express.

District officials said they had started restoration efforts to make the temple functional again, adding that there were no signs of illegal encroachment.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Shrish Chandra said that the authorities were closely monitoring the area and that security forces had been deployed.

On Wednesday, around 50 persons gathered outside the temple to offer prayers.

On Saturday, the district magistrate said that a well was discovered near an “ancient Lord Shiva temple” in Khaggu Sarai and reopened after 42 years during a drive to inspect electricity theft.

The Archaeological Survey of India is set to visit the temple on Thursday based on a...

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