Another mosque under scrutiny, another survey, more violence and deaths. Same script, different stage. Is this about uncovering history—or pushing politics?

An uneasy silence weighs heavily on the stillness of the empty streets in the centuries-old town of Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, where clashes with police over yet another 'mandir-masjid' dispute led to the deaths of local Muslim men.

Security has increased around Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, before Friday prayers due to recent tensions. The RAF and drones are deployed to maintain order after violence during ASI's examination of the mosque.

The petition contends that the survey at Sambhal's Jama Masjid, ordered by a civil judge, was conducted hastily and could lead to communal tensions, jeopardizing the secular fabric of the country.

The plea noted that the survey has triggered communal tensions in the region and it should be halted as soon as possible.

Police held a flag march in areas near the Shahi Jama Masjid on Thursday, a day before Friday prayers, with top officials saying watertight security was put in place to prevent untoward incidents