STONE-PELTING REPORTED IN UJJAIN PROTEST OVER SHAHI MASJID ROAD-WIDENING DRIVE

September 28, 2026

Tension escalated in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, on Monday as protesters opposing the proposed removal of a portion of the Shahi Masjid clashed with police during a road-widening operation. Stones were reportedly thrown at security personnel, prompting police to use tear gas to disperse the crowd. Rapid Action Force personnel were also deployed in the area.

The proposed removal is linked to a road-widening project between Kanthal Square and Gopal Mandir, being undertaken as part of preparations for the 2028 Simhastha Kumbh Mela. Authorities have said the widening is intended to improve traffic management and accommodate the large number of visitors expected during the religious gathering.

The Madhya Pradesh High Court had on September 9 dismissed petitions challenging the proposed removal of the mosque portion that falls within the planned road alignment. The court held that the municipal corporation had followed the applicable statutory procedure and had provided affected parties an opportunity to raise objections. An appeal by the mosque authorities was listed for hearing on Monday.

Police maintained a heavy presence around the mosque complex as the situation remained tense. Officials said action would be taken against those found involved in creating disturbances, while Ujjain City Qazi Khaliqur Rahman appealed to members of the Muslim community to remain calm, avoid unnecessary gatherings and not act on rumours.

The confrontation comes amid an ongoing dispute over the impact of the road project on the mosque and other structures in the area. Authorities have continued security and crowd-control measures as the legal proceedings remain underway