Clashes Erupt in Ujjain Over Shahi Masjid Demolition

Clashes erupted in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, on September 28, 2026, as protesters resisted the partial demolition of the 600-year-old Shahi Masjid. The Ujjain Municipal Corporation is removing portions of the mosque, including a 120-foot minaret and part of the prayer hall, to widen a 900-metre stretch of road to 15 metres. This project is part of the Ujjain Development Plan 2035 to prepare for the Simhastha 2028 religious gathering.

Violence broke out during the operation, with protesters engaging in stone-pelting. Police and Rapid Action Force personnel deployed approximately 2,000 officers and fired more than a dozen tear gas shells to disperse the crowds. The action followed a decision by the Madhya Pradesh High Court's Indore Bench to dismiss petitions against the demolition. The court ruled the project was in the public interest and not discriminatory, noting that portions of roughly 80 religious structures, including 10 temples and another mosque, were also affected.

Political reactions were sharply divided. Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi condemned the demolition of the heritage site. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav sought to lead by example by demolishing his own ancestral home to facilitate development works. The municipal corporation maintains the infrastructure upgrades are essential for the upcoming spiritual gathering on the banks of the Shipra River.