“Hand Over the Mosque or Else…”: Clash Between Two Muslim Groups in Saharanpur, Stone Pelting Leaves Several Injured

A dispute over the management (mohtamim) of a mosque in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, turned violent after clashes broke out between two groups from the same community. The incident involved stone pelting from rooftops, attacks with sticks and sharp weapons, and left several people injured, including women. Police have registered FIRs from both sides and launched an investigation after videos of the clash went viral.

The incident occurred in Daniyalpur, also known as Naujali village, under the jurisdiction of Nagal police station.

Dispute Over Mosque Management

According to police sources, tension had been simmering in the village for several days over who would hold responsibility for managing the mosque. Both sides accused each other of intimidation and pressuring tactics related to the mosque’s control.

In his complaint, Ikram alleged that Abdul Rehman, Gayyur, Yunus, Salim, Muntazir, and Qadir—residents of the same village—had been arguing with him repeatedly over the issue.

Allegations of Armed Attack and Stone Pelting

Ikram claimed that around 8 a.m. on January 6, the accused entered his house armed with sticks, axes, and other sharp weapons. He alleged that they broke the doors, assaulted him, and later climbed onto rooftops to pelt bricks and stones. Ikram reportedly suffered serious injuries and was said to be in critical condition.

On the other hand, Abdul Rehman filed a counter-complaint, alleging that Ikram and his associates were pressuring him to hand over the mosque and threatening to stop prayers if their demands were not met. According to his statement, around 7 p.m. on January 5, he was warned to “hand over the mosque or face consequences.”

Woman Seriously Injured

The situation worsened on the morning of January 6, around 7:30 a.m., when stone pelting allegedly began from rooftops. During the clash, Amrisha, the wife of Irshad, sustained a serious head injury after being hit by a brick.

Police Action and Current Situation

After receiving information about the violence, police teams from Nagal police station rushed to the spot and managed to control the situation. Cross-FIRs have been registered based on complaints from both parties.

Police officials said the matter is sensitive, and additional force has been deployed in the village to prevent further escalation. Investigations are underway based on medical reports, eyewitness statements, and other available evidence. Authorities have assured that strict legal action will be taken against those found guilty.