The survey of Jama Masjid in the heart of Sambhal city, Uttar Pradesh was done  following a court order, after a petition claimed that the structure was originally the site of an ancient temple significant to the Hindu faith.

Supreme Court lawyer Vishnu Shankar Jain, who is also the petitioner, said that the central government, the Uttar Pradesh government, the Masjid Committee and the district magistrate (DM) of Sambhal have been made parties in the petition.

Sambhal DM Rajendra Pensia told PTI that according to the court order, the survey was conducted by the advocate commissioner, with both parties present during the process.

“We were only providing security and protection. Today, the advocate commissioner has done the survey and he will file its report in the court,” he said.

“The survey proceedings have been completed for now. If it is required, court will decide,” the DM said.

Earlier in the day, Jain claimed that Mughal emperor Babar partly demolished the temple in 1529.

“It is believed that Kalki avatar is to take place at Sambhal,” Jain posted on X.

“Today the Hon’ble Civil Court Sambhal on my petition has directed a survey by advocate commissioner at the alleged Jama Masjid in Sambhal which was known as Hari Har Mandir,” he said.